Ironic, isn't it, that with all the "time-savers" of modern technology, we seem to have even less time for each other? Microwaves, remote controls, dishwashers, and computers were supposed to save us valuable time. But what happened to all that extra time? Apparently, it got gobbled up by other activities. Can we reclaim some of that time for our marriages? The answer is yes, if we set goals and make time to reach those goals.
The passage from Proverbs 4:25-27 shows King Solomon's advice for meeting goals. Essentially, it comes down to knowing where you're going, setting a straight path to get there, and not getting sidetracked. That's the approach we need to take if we're going to meet our goals for marriage.
How do we make time? By eliminating some of the good things, we are doing so that we will have time for the best. Life's meaning is not found in money, sports, shopping, academic success, or career achievement, as good as some of those things are. It is found in relationships - first with God, and then with people. If you are married, nothing is more important than your marital relationship. It is the framework in which God wants you to invest your life and experience His love. The husband is told to "love" his wife, and she is instructed to "honor" him. How better to love and honor each other than to make time for each other?
Take time to pray, asking God to help you identify what needs to be done in your schedule to improve your relationships. Ask for His help in determining what is good busyness and what is a distraction from other things you might be doing.
Discus or reflect on these questions:
What events exist in your schedule that could be dropped without consequence?
What regular chore could you begin to do together (or occasionally skip) to allow more time together?
Consider these passages for further study on Time:
Psalm 90:12 Teach us to number our days,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Luke 14:28 Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?
Ephesians 5:15-17 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
Proverbs 4:25-27 Let your eyes look straight ahead;
fix your gaze directly before you.
26 Give careful thought to the[a] paths for your feet
and be steadfast in all your ways.
27 Do not turn to the right or the left;
keep your foot from evil.
Great thoughts of Gary Chapman. One is to make you think of more ways to spend time with your loved ones and make it meaningful. Share in the comments one you remember or would like to plan.