Living on Borrowed Time

Introduction:

How devoted are we to our spiritual responsibilities?  Under no persecution? How long do we go w/o spending time alone w/God in study; prayer; worship? Contrast this to David’s attitude – Psa. 55:16-17.  We must make time for spiritual maintenance.   But yet…we’re so busy.  Being “too busy” is firmly entrenched as part of American culture.  Americans: blessed immensely – but many stressed out; burned out.  We try to do it ALL – then wonder why we are unhappy when ALL is not accomplished.

Take a few minutes today & honestly consider how you can improve your time mgmt skills to become a better steward. Time needs to be used wisely.  We will give an account for how we use it. (Col. 4:5)

I.  Time is the most precious commodity in the world.

A.  It is the indispensable element in every activity.

B.     Gen. 8:22 – time will remain as long as the earth remains.

C.    Regardless of the number of years a person lives – God is the giver of them all.

1.      Acts 17:28 - He has promised us no day on earth but this day.

2.      Let us be grateful for everyday he has given us. 2 Sam. 14:14a

D.    We cannot create a moment; borrow a moment; or destroy a moment.

1.      we can ONLY make wise or unwise use of it.

II.  We are responsible for using time wisely.

A.     Gen. 5:21; 25-27 – Methuselah lived 969 years.

B.     How long did Jesus live?  33 years.  Which one of these 2 accomplished the most?

C.    We live in deeds; not years.  In thoughts;

D.    Consider these scriptures: Psa. 90:12; Eph. 5:16; Psa. 39:4-6

E.     We have the responsibility for early & immediate obedience. Eccl. 12:1

F.     Look at John 9:4

1.      NOW is the time for us to be busy in the work of the Lord.

2.      Mt. 13:7, 22 – are you letting your spiritual lives be choked out?

3.      Lk. 10:38-42 what is really important?  Are you choosing the part that shall not be taken away?

III.  Practical suggestions on how to use time.

A.     Am I seeking first the kingdom of God in this particular use of time?

B.     Is this use of time best for the church?

C.    Does this use of time make a contribution to the betterment of society?

D.    Does this use of time rob me of something more vital I could receive by using this time otherwise?

E.     Am I a better qualified servant of Christ by using this time this way?

Conclusion:

A.     Average life span of American now at 70 + years. 

B.     If you live this long, how many of these years will you give to Christ?

C.    Is giving to God’s service just one year out of 70 good stewardship?

D.  There are 8760 hours during 2004.  How many of these hours will you use for God, giving them back to Him? 2 Cor. 6:2