Don’t let it slip away—make the most of your time

When you think of the word time, perhaps many thoughts come to mind. Maybe you're feeling, "I don't have enough time," or "Time is flying by." These are common reactions when we reflect on time.

The Bible speaks often and directly about the importance of time. One passage that provides a powerful framework for how we should view time is Psalm 90. The entire chapter offers a sobering yet hopeful perspective on life and the passing of days. Perhaps the most well-known verse is Psalm 90:12: "So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom."

Who doesn't want a heart of wisdom? And why is numbering our days connected to wisdom? The answer is perspective. We need perspective in life, just as we do in every task we take on. A new mother needs perspective in the midst of sleepless nights. A farmer needs perspective when heavy rains delay planting. And all of us need the reminder that our time on this earth is both short and ordained by God.

God, in His sovereignty, has set the boundaries of our lives. Psalm 139:16 reminds us: "Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there were none of them."

Yet, we often resist embracing the reality that our time is finite. We're easily drawn into distractions like scrolling through phones, browsing social media, or shopping without purpose. Time escapes us, and we fail to prioritize what truly matters. Day after day passes, and when we pause to reflect, we wonder where the time went. Too often, the cycle repeats.

We need God's grace to transform our perspective on time so we can live intentionally, pursue the Lord, and walk in His purposes. Each day, we must recalibrate our hearts toward God, asking Him to teach us how to steward our minutes and hours wisely. When we recognize that our time is limited and fleeting, we're more likely to seek His eternal purpose in it.

The world constantly pulls our attention away with its noise, distractions, and struggles. We face difficult circumstances that feel endless. But God invites us every day to focus on Him and to live with eternal perspective.

I'm reminded of the Israelites at the Red Sea. We read the story now knowing how it ends—the sea parts and God makes a way. But they didn't know what was coming. In that moment, fear overtook them. They needed the perspective that God was with them and that His faithfulness never fails.

Today, your Baptist Children's Homes (BCH) is connected to hundreds of people with real and pressing needs. Many may wonder if time will ever heal the brokenness they've experienced. Perhaps God is stirring your heart to step into this mission field. While the needs are great, I want to highlight two specific opportunities.

At BCH, we need missionaries. Missionaries to serve as houseparents and foster parents. Houseparents and foster parents who will step into the lives of children who did not choose their circumstances, but who can help these kids encounter hope and healing through the power of the Gospel. Missionaries who serve while praying for the day when families will be restored and reunified in hope.

So, what might be standing in the way? Maybe it's time. You may be thinking, "I don't have the time for that kind of commitment."

But take a moment right now to pray. Ask God to raise up those who are being prepared, yourself or others, to give their time to children and families who need them. Become a missionary right here in North Carolina—serving the vulnerable.

Our time is precious. God is moving all around us and His invitation stands. Let's join Him right now and invest our time wisely for Kingdom purposes.

Written by David Melber, Chief Executive Officer