John Maxwell - "Outside of your genetic predisposition the number one factor that determines your longevity is how well you like your work.”
Ephesians 5:15-18 “Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” (NIV)
If I am going to make the most of my time:
1. I must be careful how I spend my time. vs. 15 “Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise…”
If you don't plan your schedule someone else will.
Romans 14:12 “So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” (NKJV)
Webster was asked, "What was the most awesome thought you ever had? "My accountability to God."
Do not you realize your spiritual gifts have been assigned to this church this body?
Matthew 6:33 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (NIV)
Danger is a busy life that says I have no time for God.
2. I must accept that God has a purpose in the good and the bad seasons of my life. vs. 16 “making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
God doesn't do anything by accident.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Solomon gives us 28 times of life - a cross section of life.
There are 14 positives and 14 negatives and they both have a place in your life
What is God trying to teach you in the season that you are in?
A. What can I learn from this moment?
B. What good can come out of this moment?
C. What can I enjoy in this moment?
D. How can I trust God in this moment?
2 Corinthians 1:8-9 “We had great burdens there that were beyond our own strength. We even gave up hope of living. Truly, in our own hearts we believed we would die. But this happened so we would not trust in ourselves but in God, who raises people from the dead.” (NCV)
3. I must understand God's will. vs. 17-18 “Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”
I just have enough time to do what God wants me to do -- No more no less.
What God has planned for your life? It is time to find out!
