Gaining Time

A few months ago I began praying about how I use my free time. Free time being anything outside of my family responsibilities, side jobs I take on, and church involvement. From hobbies like gardening, to TV, to Internet, to friends, to ministries on the side that are outside of church--it all goes in the 'free time' category in my mind.

Losing the friend I saw and talked to the most recently really brought this issue to the forefront. I have more free time now, and over the last decade God has been trying to show me something about how I relate to Him and how I spend my time. Where do I go when I need someone to talk to? What is my first 'to do' when I find I've gotten the house cleaned, the dishes done, meals are under control and I've logged my food for that day? (Yes, the latter is a regular thing as I strive to go down a size or two... still)

I've been praying more and asking God for opportunities to use the gifts He's given me, and it has been a very good week on that front. It is such a great feeling when God gives us people to minister to. Even today, my son and I saw a woman who needed help with a flat tire and since we keep an electric pump with us in our vehicle, it was a no-brainer. Just being aware of what is going on around us and not in a big rush--a plug for good time management is that it affords us opportunities to listen when someone needs to talk or help someone in need.

The older I get the more precious time and opportunities are. I love Jesus and want God to use me--to work through me. I'm not able to do a lot, but through me He can do a tremendous amount. I have spent far too much time 'not' talking to Jesus like I did when I was a newer believer and far too much time thinking mainly of getting outside mom mode.

I love being a mom; it is the best thing in life for me. I love being a wife and a homemaker, too. With all of the deaths this year between Greenfield, church, and that of my good friend, it can't be missed that there is no guarantee how long I'll have my family or how long I'll have opportunities to serve here on Earth. When it was just me and the Lord, I was consumed with sharing the truth with everyone, and I want to get back to Him using me like that again.

24A man of too many friends comes to ruin,

But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.