Keep First Things First

I've been contemplating how the new year brings on a feeling of a fresh start. Similar to the way a new morning brings on new mercies, only a little grander. We tend to be filled with inspiration to do better, to spend our time wisely. 

Now that I have four children, the years tend to slip by at a quicker pace. I am literally watching time go by as my three-year-old turns four or my newborn baby becomes a seven-month-old. I want time to slow down, but it only seems to move faster. 

So I've wondered...what can I do so I don't miss out on the best parts of life? How can I handle my time more wisely? Ephesians 5:15-16 comes to mind:

"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil." (ESV).

How easy it is to get lost in the busyness of the day-to-day, to lose sight of what's most important: Jesus.

If I put Jesus before all else (marriage, my children, ministry, etc.), I believe He will help me handle all of those important areas with wisdom and grace. It's time spent with Him that fills my cup enough to pour into my husband and children, and to handle any area of ministry He’s called me to. For me, that’s my writing and however the Lord wants to use it.

I pray that for this new year, I can keep Jesus at the forefront of my heart and mind, and that He would fill me with wisdom to love my husband, pour into my children, and write well, with Him at the center of it all.