The Bible tells us in Psalm 90:12, “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts to wisdom.” Our life may seem long at times, but in reality it is very brief. We do want to make each day count.
The story is told of a man who went to the doctor for his annual physical exam. When he later met to discuss his health with the doctor, he was told he had a terminal disease with only six months to left to live. Shocked, the man asked, “Is there anything I can do to extend my life?”
The doctor thought for a few moments and gave him this recommendation. First, move to “Slap Out, Alabama.” This is a small town that moves at a very slow pace of life. Second, purchase a hog farm with 200 head of pigs and raise pigs for a living. Third, marry a widow with nine children. The patient asked, “Doctor, will that make me live longer?” The doctor replied, “No, but it will be the longest six months of your life!”
In reality, how do we maximize our lives? First, we should set our priorities to Jesus Christ and heaven. We are told in Colossians 3:1-2, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” What does God want you to accomplish? Focus your life on those priorities.
Secondly, determine to pay the price for the best. We should ask ourselves, “What must I do?” Then, “What should I do?”
Finally, ask “What do I want do I want to do?” What is great is when they all go together. As this happens, we literally find ourselves walking in what Jesus Christ calls, “The abundant life.”
Hutson Taylor, the wonderful missionary to China, had this as his motto: “Pray big prayers, dream big dreams, and be ready for big jobs.” I keep this on my desk as a reminder and motivator.
Dr. David Bouler of Global Faith Ministries, Chattanooga, Tennessee, contributed this column to the Journal Review. He can be reached by email at debouler@aol.com.
