Got the time is a post coming very much from a Christian perspective. It has a different take on the subject from my usual articles. This article asks: Have we got the time? One of my favourite songs of the late 1970s was “Got the Time” by Joe Jackson. I have posted it here. The song displays how I feel at work – even the beat to the song sounds busy! As a nurse, I never seem to have enough time at work. A patient calls for help while a drug needs to be given. Another patient has had a fall, and a patient has to be taken down to the theatre for surgery as they are first on the long list of operations that need to be performed that day.
This is why I go on retreats about three times a year—to have uninterrupted time for writing but also for swimming and walking, which I love doing. I am currently in Cairns, and I certainly have got the time here to write and hopefully publish four new posts. The time I have chosen to go away coincides with Cyclone Alfred, which will hit Brisbane, where I live tomorrow. I found out before leaving so I could fill bottles of water and clear the furniture from outside before I left. It was great that I got the time to do that.
The Pros and Cons of Being Busy
Being busy can be a good thing. It is undoubtedly better than procrastinating and doing nothing, but it also has downsides. Here are three advantages and three disadvantages of being busy:
Advantages:
- Increased Productivity: Staying busy can lead to better financial benefits.
- A Sense of Purpose: Managing time effectively becomes essential when you have much to do.
- A Better Social Life: Being busy often involves interacting with others, which is very good for you.
Disadvantages:
- Stress and Burnout: Doing too much can turn once-enjoyable activities into painful chores.
- Decreased Creativity & Reduced Work Quality: Lack of time for reflection can affect performance.
- A Worse Social Life: Being too busy can mean neglecting relationships.
Three Bible Verses on How to Spend Your Time:
- Ephesians 5:15-16 (NIV): “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” This verse reminds us to use our time wisely and purposefully, making the most of every moment.
- Colossians 3:23 (NIV): “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” This encourages us to be diligent and intentional with our time.
- Psalm 90:12 (NIV): “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” This reminds us that life is short, and we should seek wisdom in spending our time.
Three Bible Verses on Rest:
- Matthew 11:28-29 (NIV): “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble, and you will find rest for your souls.” This reminds us that while working hard is essential, we must also find rest in Jesus and not carry burdens alone.
- Exodus 33:14 (NIV): “The Lord replied, ‘My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.’” This verse reminds us that proper rest comes from God’s presence, not just physical relaxation.
- Psalm 127:2 (NIV): “In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves.” This verse teaches that overworking without trusting God is pointless. God wants us to rest and rely on Him.
It’s All About Balance
In conclusion, it is all about balance. We need plenty of time to pray and hear God, not just rush into the first thing that comes to mind. Then, we have the time to get things done. It’s no good running around like a headless chicken – something I’m often guilty of. Frequently, we must sit back and let God do what He can easily do.
A favourite Bible verse of mine is Exodus 14:14: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still.”
Have you got the time to pause and let God work in your life today?
