Time and Priorities

I am moving from a busy week right into another busy week. I have found during seasons like this one I am usually running on fumes; spiritually and physically. There does not seem to be enough time to do those few things I know give energy, rejuvenation, and real rest. I’m going to tell on myself; there is time, I have just been rebelliously choosing the easy wrong instead of the hard right.

The Right Stuff

Looking back at those great seasons in my life where it all seems to be going great, I am most definitely doing these 4 things:

1. Praying and Reading the Bible

My most consistent times doing these things are first thing in the morning with a cup of coffee. Setting 30-60 minutes to slowly spend time in God’s presence should be ever Christians top priority. No one will end their life saying “I spent too much time praying.” We are in a spiritual war, and we are not humanly strong enough to compete, so why do I act like I can do this on my own?

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:10-12

Notice Paul says “in the Lord and in the strength of HIS might.” These practices orient my heart to that of my Father; the one who is good, loving, merciful, gracious, long-suffering, and has all the power.

Not sure how to pray?

Thislink has several guides that show you how to read through specific passages in the Bible. The great thing about praying scripture is that you can’t do it wrong, scripture is perfect because it’s God’s Word.

Not sure how to read the Bible?

Buy this Bible on amazon and start reading John. John was one of Jesus best friends, and the theme of this gospel is that Jesus truly is the Son of God, the long awaited messiah.

2. Physical Exercise

8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8

This verse explains why this is not number 1, but should come after training in godliness. Physical exercise has proven to be one of the greatest disciplines in my life. This is an opportunity for my spirit to tell my flesh that it is not in charge, a lesson that needs revisiting daily. Exercise is good for your heart, muscles, lungs, bones, and very helpful for your mind. There is something about breaking a sweat that helps me to realize that my to-do list is a list and not a pile. Instead of seeing an impossible mound, I see individual steps to start taking. And, if you do it often, you see results, so kill the excuses and go move. This sermon might convince you further.

3. Journaling

I started this blog because it is a form of journaling for me. I love writing with a pen and a notebook. I love writing in my Bible. I love typing this exact blog on my laptop. Journaling is a discipline too though. Some days I write for less than a minute, sometimes for an hour. I write frustrations, prayers, praises, ask questions, or just document the day. If I have to have a tough conversation, I write it down first. Slowing down to write with pen and paper in our time is a way to fight against the always on, always wired, always connected world of the internet. I’ve linked a podcast that was beneficial for me and showed me the value of writing things down.

4. Reading Books

Reading both fiction and non-fiction books has been so restful in my life. The nice thing about reading is that you can’t attempt to multitask, you’re either reading or you’re not. I find that reading helps me slow down, even for just a few minutes, in the midst of a busy season. I like to read fiction before bed and that always helps me turn my brain off before I fall asleep. I use a kindle, because you can read in the dark and that’s quite fantastic.

Another Benefit

When I am in God’s work, working out, journaling, and reading, I am a better husband and dad. Sounds like I would not have time for my family, but in fact I am more engaged, available, and intentional with my family when my controllable priorities are correct.

Make YOUR List

What are 4 things that you know are helpful and restful that need to be prioritized? Set aside time and do them, I promise you have time. This exercise will help identify the wasteful things needing to be weeded out of your day. (My time wasters are shopping for guitars I can’t afford on Reverb and aimlessly scrolling YouTube. Neither help me follow Christ, love my family, or achieve my goals).

(If I have time, playing bass)

I love playing music, it’s relaxing and fun; but I need to make sure I do 1-4 before I get to that. Hobbies are great!