When you ask someone to join you at church, one reoccurring question is, “how long does it last?”

And I get it.

We are a heavily time influenced society, though not often a time appreciative one. Deadlines create pressure or the false sense of one as we speed down highways on our commute or ignoring bills past due, causing stress in households.

What are you rushing towards?  How is time fueling your life?

Whether it be school, social media, or a bank account – there’s often a deep reservoir of emotion or attention attached to our routines. They are a thrill. At least until the thrill numbs our senses and we seek a new way to stimulate the idle time.

Quiet time is almost looked at by some as a disease. An inconvenient and uncomfortable space to fine oneself in. We’re marketed to that it’s easier to sit for a film about apocalyptic purging, than to actually purge toxicity from one’s life.

Several months back, the legendary leader and Civil Rights icon Maxine Waters, caused the term (and I’d argue mindset) “reclaiming my time” to go viral. Someone like Congresswoman Waters understands implicitly how valuable time is.

Satan will throw any distraction to diminish or completely eliminate that which centers you on living in the present moment for Christ. Think about it. We’ve lived in sin in the past and that’s over. And the future, we’re not able to control it fully, though we may be able to impact it partially. The moment is what we have. The time right now to live for Him. Seek His instruction here. Today. It’s all we get.

So often we live as we have an infinite supply of time. Christ lived knowing time was not on His side. Devoting time to the poor, sick, lost, and forgotten. Jesus frequently spoke of immediacy when giving instruction. Being consciously present in the moment to heal, hear, and help.

I don’t spend enough time with God. Yet, He spends all His time focused on me.

So, how can I take action to do a better job of being in His presence? Try a couple of these ideas:

• Download an an app tracker to see how much time you spend on your phone and what are the top 3-4 apps you are using daily.
• Identify 5 habits or commitments that you can step away from and see how the additional time changes your mood and time with the Lord.
• What aren’t you making time for, but should be? It might be your health or family. Make it a priority to do something about it this week.
• Select 1 devotional song, sentence of a verse, or prayer. Read, listen, pray it at lunch, breakfast, or dinner 3 days this week. On the other days, write something you’re full of gratitude for.

God Bless.