Is God asking me to do more? As an old & retired guy, my “normal” has shifted from when I worked. I was a “Do More” guy. I was overweight, taking multiple pills for my high blood pressure and headed for a heart attack. My best friend told me, “Rob, you were wound so tight, it was a matter of time before you broke.” He was right. I was a walking timebomb. I was doing good things for people, and I loved every minute of it. I just added more to my overloaded plate. Then I retired (a future story). It has taken me 15 years to understand the choice that created so much stress & anxiety in my life. It is the “Do More Principle.”

As a Group Leader for Bible Study Fellowship, I recognize the “Do More Principle” at work. Whether it’s a veteran BSF’er or a new guy, I see guys “trying” to add to their already busy schedule. Using the “Do More Principle” to studying God’s Word will create discouragement & being overwhelmed. Good news, God is not trying to overload you with more.

Jesus gave us the key to life, His Way. We find the answer, along with all other life answers in the Guidebook for Living, the Bible. In Matthew 22 Jesus was asked, which Law was the most important…what’s the top priority? Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.” Mt 22:37,38. In Matthew 6:33 Jesus said, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” God does not want you to add more to your #1’s. No, He is clearly telling us, to be His follower, He must be “THE” #1.

So how? We all have “Time-Robbers” in our life. Some of mine are playing solitaire, looking at the news, watching You Tube clips all on my phone. In addition to the occasional Facebook clicks, when I add up the wasted time…I’m embarrassed. Do you ever look at your checkbook register to see where the money went? Well, if you examine your time, you too will be surprised. It’s not that we don’t have time…it’s what we choose to do with the 24 hours He gives us.

If you are sick & tired of climbing on the daily treadmill…turning up the incline & speed of life, I challenge you to a 30-Day test run. For 30 days reduce the “Time-Robbers” and give that time to God. In fact, if you give Him your first 15-20 minutes of your day you will be amazed & Blessed. This is the principle of “Putting First Things First.”  

Knowing & Following Jesus is not a “job” or a task but a relationship. A relationship He desires. He has called us the “Apple of His Eye” (Ps 17:8),” “Precious in His Sight” (Ps 116:15),” His Children” (1 Jn 3:1).

How we spend our time is a choice of priorities. What is yours?