A new year begins Wednesday! Where did the past twelve months go? The rapid passing of time reminds us of the brevity of life, the preciousness of time, and the urgency of doing what we can while we can. It also reminds us of the things in life that are most important—the Bible, the church, the soul, family, Christian friends, hope for a better tomorrow, etc.
We are reminded that Christ must be the center of our lives because no one else, and nothing else, can bring us the happiness and blessings we really need. May this new year challenge us to take the time, while we have it, to live.
During 2025, will you consider taking time for the following important things?
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Take time to plan.
Far more is accomplished with a plan than without one. Planning exercises the mind before working the body. Those who plan little do little. Jesus had a plan (Luke 19:10).
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Take time to work.
Success comes only when we follow through with our plans. Inspiration without perspiration leads to failure. Jesus worked His plan (John 9:4). Work is essential to eating (II Thess. 3:10). However, we should not let work take all our time.
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Take time to play.
It is the secret of recreating self. Even Jesus felt the need to walk along a seashore and to go into the mountains (Luke 6:12). Yet, playing, relaxation, and recreation must not be the primary essence of life.
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Take time to read.
It is the foundation of knowledge. The man who doesn’t read has no advantage over the man who can’t read. Reading makes life full, significant, and interesting. It provides help for many problems and refuge for many miseries. Of course, the Bible should be number one on our reading list. Jesus spoke of searching the Scriptures to find Him (John 5:39).
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Take time for others.
Be friendly and make friends (Prov. 18:24). Assist others when opportunity comes (Gal. 6:10). Life is too short to be selfish. Jesus had time for individuals, in fellowship, in teaching, and in giving assistance.
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Take time to laugh.
It is medicine for the heart (Prov. 17:22). Can you imagine Jesus never smiling or laughing at things, or people, He found amusing?
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Take time to weep.
Jesus did. Acquainted with grief, He could weep with the burdened (John 11:35). Likewise, we are to weep with those who weep (Rom. 12:15).
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Take time to be thankful.
Gratitude helps us be positive about our situations in life. It brings the peace of God that guards our hearts, even in the midst of trials. Jesus always gave thanks and taught His disciples to be thankful (Matt. 15:36).
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Take time to serve God.
This is the conclusion of what really matters and the whole duty of man (Eccles. 12:13). Jesus said that His food and purpose of life was to do the will of the Father (John 4:34; 6:38). He is always our example in everything that is right and good.
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