Use Your Time Wisely

"Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil."

(Ephesians 5:15-16)

(Note: if your child attends a school operating on a balanced, year-round calendar, you may use this activity during any extended school break.)

Now that most schools are in summer recess, some children have a tendency to waste a significant amount of time. Tell the children that God says that wise people make the most of their time. Encourage the children to make a list of activities that they want to do, but never have taken the time to do. They could also make a list of activities or responsibilities that they should have done, but never completed. Some examples might be:

• Join the summer reading program at the local library.
• Learn a new skill, such as planting and tending a garden; or learn carpentry or sewing.
• Teach the family dog some obedience lessons.
• Organize a talent show for children in the neighborhood with donations going to a local mission.
• Adopt a missionary pen pal and learn about the missionary's ministry and country.
• Read the Bible or a large section of it, such as the New Testament.

Encourage the children to choose one goal per month. They will make good use of their time by working toward goals. Children will have fun taking pictures of their experiences and/or keeping a journal of their activities. At the end of the summer, ask the children to share what they have learned from making good use of their time.

Prayer

Dear God, you have given us the gift of time. Teach us not to waste that gift, but to be good stewards of time and to use it wisely. Help us to remember the lessons you have taught us when summer ends. Amen.

Questions for Discussion

• What did you learn about yourself by making better use of your time?
• What are you most proud of accomplishing?
• How did your stewardship of time honor God?
• What are some steps that you can take to make better use of your time throughout the year?

Janet Zimmerman is an ordained United Methodist deacon, who serves as Christian Education Director at Church of the Lakes in Canton, Ohio.

Posted in2004.