The Upper Room Devotional for 3rd September 2023, Sunday
The Upper Room Devotional for 3rd September 2023, Sunday Message by Renny Gehman (Texas, USA)
TOPIC:Â Wasting Time
TODAY’S READING
Ephesians 5:8-20
Be careful, then, how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. – Ephesians 5:15-16 (NRSVUE)
I’d say that I manage my time well, so it startled me recently to discover I’d wasted an entire week! I couldn’t believe it, but there it was on my cellphone app usage report: solitaire — seven days, 10 hours, 13 minutes. I had wasted an entire week playing solitaire.
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul urged believers to use their time carefully. He exhorted them to follow the example of Christ and to seek God’s will when deciding what activities to pursue. Paul advised that we spend time worshiping God, encouraging one another, and singing songs of thanks and praise.
What could I have done instead of playing solitaire? What if I’d studied the Bible or memorized scripture during those seven days, 10 hours, and 13 minutes? Suppose I’d called church members who are lonely, written encouraging notes, prayed for missionaries, or volunteered in places where I could share the good news. It’s the small, unnoticed distractions that can take up the time the Lord grants us. Some distractions steal opportunities and others hinder obedience. When we carefully examine our walk, we can make sure each step follows Christ.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear Father, help us to spend our time wisely, doing things that build up others and glorify you. Give us courage to imitate Jesus. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
How is God calling me to use my time?
PRAYER FOCUS
To use my time wisely
The Upper Room Devotional for 3rd September 2023 Message, is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More.
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