In Touch 08-11-04

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

Wednesday August 11, 2004
InTouch Early Light Devotional

Time For Success
Ephesians 5:15-17

For Christ-followers, success in God's eyes is to be the only kind that matters. But sometimes success seems to elude us. When it does, examining what we are thinking and how we are spending our time will help us move forward. There is a direct relationship between the way we use our time and being successful. To become the person God wants us to be and accomplish the tasks He has given us to do, we must manage our time carefully.

God has given us the gift of time, and we are accountable to Him for how we spend it. We need to recognize that time is not ours to fill up as we choose, but rather, it is a trust from God to be utilized in ways that fulfill His plan. Reviewing our schedule regularly will ensure we are investing our time His way.

Take a moment this week to review your calendar, and ask yourself:

Does this schedule reveal a wise use of my time according to God's principles?

Where will I end up if I keep investing my time in these activities? Will it be where God wants me to be?

What will I accomplish for God's kingdom if I continue using my time in this fashion?

Does the way I spend my time help me toward achieving God's goal for me - personal transformation into Christ-likeness?

Then respond to what God's Spirit reveals about your schedule, so that you may make wise use of your days. Remember, God wants you to succeed.

Are you looking for an outreach that will inspire your children to grow in their faith? Visit Teen Connection (www.teen-connection.info), the official teen outreach of In Touch Ministries. Be sure to check out the latest interviews with Atlanta Braves' pitcher Russ Ortiz and Dove award-winning band, downhere.

For free one-on-one mentoring online from Dr. Charles Stanley, visit
www.charlesstanleyinstitute.com.