Sometimes, before a birthday, I write myself sermons... like this one, which I wrote before I turned nineteen...
I have many hopes and dreams for these upcoming years-- most of all that I would be conformed to the image of my Savior, Jesus Christ. I want to work with Him to change my life-- and then help others to do the same. I want to set a good example in all areas. I want to be a blessing to many. I want to make a difference for Christ in this world! I want to show the world the love of Christ. I Want to help save the unborn, to show teens what they can do to further God's kingdom. I want to show the people around me what a godly family looks like. I want to be self-disciplined, humble, a person of integrity, kind, loving, thankful, holy, a servant, and so much more. I want to teach classes for girls about purity, prayer, modesty and more. I want to use my gifts for God's glory! Write for Him, teach for Him... I want to continue to learn, grow, and develop. I want to support and encourage and follow a man of God- the one He has chosen for me. I want to raise children who will change the world for Christ.
I cannot afford to waste more time--alas--life is far too short as it is-- I must not throw away the hours! If I am to do all these things the Lord has laid on my heart and mind--I cannot afford to waste my time!
Each day must be used to the fullest--each moment captured with usefulness. These days are all I shall ever receive... 24 hours--nothing more, nothing less.
If I do not use them-- Oh, what a waste! The only truly unreplenishable commodity--time! You cannot buy more! You only ever have the time on earth that was allotted to you!
Each minute should be used for things of eternal value... for this time here on earth is only preparing for the eternal life! How quickly it shall pass! How soon I shall be on my deathbed! How swift the hours are! If my life thus far has so quickly fled-- how short the remaining years will go!
Once they are gone, they are gone for all eternity! This is so desperately important! This is what life is.
It is all we get-- so, dear Lord, please enable me to use my time wisely! Let me not become distracted by this world!
Yes... I was rather addicted to exclamation marks. Ahem. Anyways.
Well, I suppose the question now is: how am I doing with all this I now that I'm twenty? Um... sadly, I am not living up to eighteen year old me's aspirations. :( I generally waste time horrifically... and I have even more responsibilities now than I did then. So, what am I going to do about it? Good question. First, I'm going to shut off chat until I get caught up online (starting Friday). Secondly, I am going to work out a schedule with my mom. Thirdly, I am going to limit chat to TWO DAYS PER WEEK. Sorry about the caps... I have just tried this before and then failed. :( But I really think this is key, since chatting seems to have a voracious appetite for time. :P It would be lovely if my chatting buddies could hold me to this!
Any other tips for using time wisely?
It is good to be reminded of our passionate desires and goals, especially when we aren't quite measuring up to them, and have begun to forget. Diligence is my greatest challenge right now, and I am going to win that war. I won't say need, or it won't happen, as you pointed out. :)
ReplyDeleteChatting is indeed a time hog, and your new plan should definitely make a difference. I'll do my best to help hold you to that.
One thing I have been thinking about adding to my journaling is writing down how much I did each day that laid up treasure in heaven. I think that is one kind of thing that you should do every day, and it might be a good index of your daily focus and productivity.
Right after reading this, I found this, which I found funny.
Great post Carissa!
ReplyDeleteI wrote a letter to myself when I turned 25 and have now lost it! It was a picture of what I wanted to be like as an older woman. :)
Hold on to these thoughts and re-read them regularly. (Even if it is only once every couple of years.)
I will try and help you too with your new chat schedule. :)
God Bless,
love,
Mrs. Mama Lauser
Jay: Yes it is. This is why we journal. :D Good for you! I, too, am going to win this one. We have to. :P
ReplyDeleteYep 'tis... thank you muchly!!
That is a really good idea. Have you implemented it at all yet? I think I will start doing that as well.
Haha! That is funny. :D
Mrs. Mama Lauser Thank you! :)
Oh dear, that's sad that you lost it... have you rewritten it yet?
I will! :)
Thank you very much! :)
God bless!
Love,
Carissa
See the power of positive thinking within you. God bless you.
ReplyDeleteCarissa, I love your new background!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you! :D I love it too!
ReplyDelete