Favor Fridays with Tony: The Gift of Time

Time is one of the most precious gifts God has given us. It’s not something we can create or control, but it is something we can cherish, use wisely, and reflect upon. The Bible reminds us in Ecclesiastes 3:1 (The Message), “There’s an opportune time to do things, a right time for everything on the earth.” Today, we’ll explore how God blesses us with time: through our ages, the time we were born, the time we share with loved ones, the opportunities He grants us to do the right thing, and the second chances He gives us to live in His will.

Time and Our Ages

Every year we celebrate birthdays, often reflecting on how far we’ve come and where we’re headed. Each age we reach is a reminder of God’s faithfulness. Whether you’re a teenager figuring out life, a parent guiding the next generation, or an elder sharing wisdom, your time is uniquely purposed. Psalm 90:12 (The Message) says, “Oh! Teach us to live well! Teach us to live wisely and well!”

Think of a 10-year-old boy excitedly starting a new school year, discovering new talents, and building friendships. Or imagine an 85-year-old woman who, though retired, uses her time to mentor young women in her church, pouring into them the wisdom God has given her. Both lives, though different in stage, show the beauty of time well-lived.

The Time We Were Born

The timing of our birth is no accident. God placed us in this specific time in history for a reason. Acts 17:26-27 (The Message) reminds us, “He made the entire human race and made the earth hospitable, with plenty of time and space for living so we could seek after God.”

Imagine someone born in the early 1900s witnessing the evolution of technology and society, or someone born today growing up in a world of digital advancements and rapid change. Each generation has its challenges and blessings, but every birth is purposeful. God knew exactly when you were needed on this earth.

Ruth: Born for Such a Time as This

The story of Ruth is a profound example of someone born for a specific purpose and time. Ruth, a Moabite widow, chose to remain with her mother-in-law, Naomi, despite having no obligation to do so. In Ruth 1:16-17 (The Message), Ruth declares, “Where you go, I go; and where you live, I’ll live. Your people are my people, your God is my God.” Her faithfulness to Naomi and her willingness to embrace God’s people led to her becoming part of the lineage of Jesus Christ.

Ruth’s story is one of redemption and divine timing. She was born during a period of great difficulty for her people but was placed in Naomi’s life to bring hope and restoration. Through her marriage to Boaz, Ruth became the great-grandmother of King David, playing a crucial role in God’s plan for His people. Her life reminds us that even in the most challenging circumstances, God’s timing is perfect, and He uses us for His glory.

Moses: Deliverer in God’s Time

Moses’ story is another testament to how God uses individuals at the right time for His purposes. Born during a time when Pharaoh ordered the death of all Hebrew male infants, Moses was miraculously spared and raised in Pharaoh’s palace. Exodus 2:10 (The Message) says, “The child grew, and she presented him to Pharaoh’s daughter, who adopted him as her son. She named him Moses, ‘Pulled-Out,’ saying, ‘I pulled him out of the water.’”

Despite his royal upbringing, Moses fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew slave. Years later, God called him from a burning bush to return to Egypt and deliver the Israelites from slavery. Moses initially doubted his ability, but God assured him in Exodus 3:12 (The Message), “I’ll be with you.”

Moses was instrumental in leading the Israelites out of Egypt, parting the Red Sea, and receiving the Ten Commandments. His life demonstrates that God’s timing and calling are always precise, even when we feel unprepared. Moses’ obedience changed the course of history for God’s people.

Time With Loved Ones

One of the greatest blessings of time is the opportunity to spend it with loved ones. The laughter shared during family reunions, the comfort of a friend’s embrace during tough times, or the quiet moments of holding a child are priceless. James 4:14 (The Message) reminds us, “You don’t know the first thing about tomorrow. You’re nothing but a wisp of fog, catching a brief bit of sun before disappearing.”

Take the example of a family gathering for Sunday dinner. Grandparents pass down stories from their youth, children play outside, and everyone enjoys a meal cooked with love. These moments remind us that time with loved ones is a gift to treasure. Even during disagreements or struggles, time together builds bonds and memories that last forever.

Time to Do the Right Thing

God gives us time to align ourselves with His will and do what is right. Each day is a new opportunity to extend forgiveness, seek reconciliation, or help someone in need. Galatians 6:9-10 (The Message) says, “So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time, we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all.”

Consider a busy professional who notices a struggling colleague. Instead of ignoring them, she takes time to mentor and encourage them, knowing her actions could make a lasting impact. Or think of a teenager who chooses to stand up for a bullied classmate, showing courage and kindness. These moments of doing good shape not only the lives of others but also our character and faith.

Times of Forgiveness and Second Chances

One of the most beautiful ways God blesses us with time is through His forgiveness and the second chances He gives us. No matter how far we stray, God always invites us back to Him. 2 Peter 3:9 (The Message) reminds us, “God isn’t late with his promise as some measure lateness. He is restraining himself on account of you, holding back the End because he doesn’t want anyone lost. He’s giving everyone space and time to change.”

Picture a man who made poor decisions in his youth, estranged from his family and distant from God. Through prayer and a series of events, he finds himself in church one Sunday, moved to tears by the message of grace. That day becomes the turning point for reconciliation with his loved ones and a renewed faith in God. His story echoes the parable of the prodigal son, showing that God is always ready to welcome us home.

Original Quotes About Time

“Time is a gift from God, wrapped in moments we often overlook. Cherish it, use it wisely, and thank Him for it daily.”
“God’s timing is perfect, even when we don’t understand it. Trust His plan, for He sees the bigger picture.”
“Every second is a chance to start anew, to love deeper, to forgive fully, and to live purposefully.”

Encouragement for Using Time Wisely

Here are practical ways to honor the time God has given us:

Start Each Day in Prayer: Dedicate your time to God each morning, asking Him to guide your actions and decisions.
Spend Quality Time With Loved Ones: Put aside distractions and be fully present with those you care about. Create memories that will last a lifetime.
Reflect on Your Purpose: Ask God to reveal how He wants you to use your time to serve Him and others. Jeremiah 29:11 (The Message) says, “I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.”
Forgive and Seek Reconciliation: Don’t let time pass without addressing unresolved issues. Forgive others as God has forgiven you.
Pursue Your God-Given Goals: Take steps toward accomplishing what God has placed in your heart. Whether it’s starting a ministry, writing a book, or helping your community, trust that He will equip you.

Examples of Time Well-Used

A single mother who juggles work and parenting but ensures she spends time reading the Bible with her children every night.
A retiree who volunteers at a local food pantry, using her time to serve others and share God’s love.
A young entrepreneur who sets aside one day a week to mentor teenagers, guiding them to trust in God’s plan for their lives.

Closing Thoughts

Time is a gift we cannot take for granted. Each moment is an opportunity to draw closer to God, love others deeply, and fulfill the purpose He has for us. Ecclesiastes 3:11 (The Message) beautifully states, “He has made everything beautiful in its time.” Let us use the time we’ve been given to glorify Him and make an impact that lasts for eternity.

Today, take a moment to thank God for the time you have and ask Him to help you use it wisely. Whether you’re reflecting on the past, living in the present, or planning for the future, trust that He holds all time in His hands. As Psalm 31:15 (The Message) says, “Hour by hour I place my days in your hand.”

Let’s make every moment count.