Editor’s journey

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Seduced by a busy life

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. –– If believers were surveyed to determine what factors hinder their spiritual growth, “falling to temptation” would be near the top of the list. But one detriment, in particular, is often underestimated: a busy life.

Our calendars are filled with obligation and activity: Little League games, yard work, PTA meetings, business luncheons, family gatherings, church functions and more.

If we don’t take precautions, the frenzied pace can take a toll on our spiritual lives. Exhaustion sets in, our stress level rises, and we find ourselves more inclined to load a DVD than to reach for a Bible.

Steps must be taken to ensure that a busy life does not lure us away from the disciplines that provide strength for the journey: prayer, Bible reading, church participation, and outreach.

The pace of 21st-century life requires we embrace a new level of spiritual discipline. We must guard ourselves from running so fast that we ultimately lose spiritual momentum and power.

A busy life in itself is not a sin. As it says in 2 Thessalonians 3:11, we were created to be purposefully busy. Unfortunately, if we don’t spend our time wisely we can become “busybodies.”

If you tend to run at warp speed, here are some steps you can take to maximize your time and keep spiritual disciplines a vital part of your life:

1. Honor the Sabbath (Exodus 20:8).

2. Arrive at work 10 minutes early to read a chapter from God’s Word.

3. Pray in the shower.

4. Commit yourself to projects/activities one year at a time.

5. Ask your spouse or friend to hold you accountable for how you use your leisure time.

6. Take a short prayer walk each evening.

7. Designate at least 10 percent of your income and leisure time to your local church.

Hal Donaldson

E-mail your comments to tpe@ag.org.