by Michelle Welch
“Choose my instruction rather than silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies. Nothing you desire can compare with it.”
Proverbs 8:10-11 (NLT)
At the beginning of each year we are often encouraged to make some resolutions to become new and improved. The options for making those changes are vast. Switch to a scripture-based diet. Find a one word. Thirty days to a new you. Read this book. See this movie. Attend this seminar.
While there is nothing inherently wrong with any of these suggestions, it is possible that we might be missing the real change needed? In our chaotic lives filled with technology, kids, and work, how often do we set aside the important for the mundane?
A recent study showed that on average we spend 7 hours per day using some form of technology such as television, computers, phones, or gaming. Let that sink in for a moment. When I first heard that statistic, I immediately defaulted to “not me!” Yet, as I sat there in front of the computer reading an article, I knew that if I added up all the hours I spend “checking” my phone, reading my email, and watching TV “to relax”, it would be true that I am part of that statistic.
Immediately I began to make a defense in my mind:
“I need to keep up with my family.”
“I need to keep up with the news.”
“I need to have some down time.”
“I need to…”
As I sat in prayerful consideration of what I should do to “change” my life this year, one thing became clear. In John 15:5, I am reminded that “apart from me you can do nothing”. Let that sink in for a moment. Apart from Him we can do nothing.
Nothing.
How can I learn to raise my family? Read His Word.
How can I learn to be a productive member of society? Read His Word.
How can I learn to change my life, my health, my diet? Read His Word.
How can I become a new person? Read His Word.
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”
Romans 12:2 (NLT)
I won’t lie. It’s hard to make the change. I can easily spend 2 hours a day on Facebook alone. And don’t even get me started on my favorite television shows. Sadly, I had to admit that I struggled to give God the first 30 minutes a day. Prayer? I can’t even tell you the last time I spent an entire hour praying.
One week in the new year, and I have stumbled as often as I have succeeded in putting Him first. But I am moving forward, and He is walking beside me. He reminds me daily that everything is possible if I place my trust in Him. (Mark 10:27) I pray that you will join with me as I seek to spend more hours in His Word. Let’s work to change the trend. How amazing would it be if we could say that we spend 7 hours a day doing His work? Just imagine!
Copyright © 2015, Michelle Welch, all rights reserved, Breath of Life Women’s Ministries. Images from Pinterest. Scripture from The Holy Bible, New Living Translation.
