Spending Life

Ephesians 5:15-17 (New International Version)
15Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.

The scripture reference above came in an email from Harold Taylor today, with a note to say that these verses drive home the importance of time for him.

He also said:
"I will be interviewed by Christine Williams, On the Line, on CTV 2 PM October 3rd. This time it's stress and I suppose I'll be talking about the relationship between time and stress. Eli Bay, stress specialist, will be on the same program."

It sounds like something to mark on our calendars and watch if we can!
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Isaiah 30:18 (New International Version)
18 Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you;
he rises to show you compassion.
For the LORD is a God of justice.
Blessed are all who wait for him!

As I read this verse before starting my day, I saw that God is not passive, detached or cerebral in his caring for us--but action oriented, initiating--he rises to show compassion. Our part...to wait. How we turn it all around--we want to be up and about and doing. We are like unbridled race horses--our energy unfocused.

Matthew 9:36 (New International Version)
36When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Dear Lord, please help me and my friends who struggle with "overload." Please help us to "make the most of every opportunity," and "understand what the Lord's will is." Please teach us how to resist the pressures that pull us in many different directions and help us to keep our eyes and ears on you.

1 Peter 4:10 (New International Version)
10Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.

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