Investing Time Wisely for Eternal Impact

Summary

Time is the most valuable resource we possess, and yet it is so easy to let it slip through our fingers without much thought. Every person, regardless of age, wealth, or status, is given the same 24 hours in a day, and every one of us will one day run out of time. The reality is sobering: every birth certificate eventually becomes a death certificate, though the expiration date is unknown. The question is not if, but when, and what we will do with the time we have. The way we use our time reveals what we truly value, and it is a mirror reflecting our priorities, character, and purpose.

Time is not just something to be spent; it is something to be invested. Like a precious resource, it should not be wasted on things that do not matter or cannot last. The Bible urges us to “make the most of every opportunity,” to live wisely and with intention, because the days are evil and fleeting. We are called to number our days, to gain a heart of wisdom, and to recognize that every second is a non-refundable payment. Once it is gone, it cannot be reclaimed.

Our use of time exposes our true priorities. Where we invest our hours and attention shapes who we become. Toxic activities, emotions, and relationships can drain our time and energy, leaving us empty and distracted from what matters most. We must be vigilant, guarding our time from things and people that pull us away from God’s purposes. Jesus himself modeled a life not driven by the tyranny of the urgent, but by the direction of the Father—a life guided by a compass, not just a clock.

Ultimately, our time has a divine purpose. As followers of Christ, our primary calling is not our profession or daily tasks, but to do the will of God: to seek and save the lost, to serve, and to be ministers of reconciliation. God gives us “kairos” moments—divine appointments that are windows of opportunity for eternal impact. The challenge is to be aware, obedient, and ready to step into these moments, not so consumed with our own plans that we miss what God is doing right in front of us. Time is running out, and there is no backup plan for the work God has given each of us. May we invest our time wisely, living with holy purpose, and making the most of every opportunity for the kingdom.

Key Takeaways

- Time is Priceless and Non-Refundable
Every second of life is a non-refundable payment; once it is spent, it cannot be reclaimed. This reality should drive us to invest our time intentionally, not just spend it on fleeting pleasures or distractions. The value of time surpasses money or possessions, and wisdom is found in numbering our days and using them for what truly matters. [56:16]

- Time Reveals Our True Priorities
How we use our time is a mirror reflecting what we value most. Our schedules and habits expose our real priorities, whether they are relationships, personal growth, or the pursuit of God. If we want to become people of character and faith, we must invest our time in things that shape us accordingly, rather than letting it be consumed by mindless or toxic pursuits. [01:00:21]

- Guard Against Toxic Time Wasters
Toxic activities, emotions, and relationships can drain our time and distract us from our calling. Not every demand or drama deserves our attention; sometimes, the most spiritual thing we can do is to say no and protect our time for what God has truly called us to. Even Jesus did not respond to every accusation or request, modeling discernment in how he invested his time. [01:04:45]

- Live by the Compass, Not Just the Clock
A life of purpose is not about rushing from one task to another, but about being guided by God’s direction and vision. The clock measures duration, but the compass gives direction. Surrendering our time to Christ means seeking his will for each day, being open to divine interruptions, and letting his mission shape our agenda. [01:09:10]

- Seize Divine Appointments—Kairos Moments
God orchestrates specific, meaningful moments—kairos opportunities—for us to make an eternal impact. These are not just random events, but windows where God’s timing, our awareness, and our obedience align. We must pray for eyes to see these moments, courage to act, and a heart that values eternal things over the temporary, knowing that there is no backup plan for the work God has entrusted to us. [01:17:06]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[34:14] - Opening and Introductions
[43:00] - The DMV Story: Running Out of Time
[47:29] - The Reality of Time’s Limit
[50:26] - What Is Most Valuable? Street Interviews
[53:36] - It’s About Time: The Value of Time
[54:38] - Ephesians 5: Making the Most of Every Opportunity
[55:22] - Time at the End of Life
[56:16] - Time Is Priceless: Invest, Don’t Spend
[59:10] - Non-Refundable Payments: How Are You Spending Time?
[01:00:21] - Time Reveals Priorities
[01:03:08] - Toxic Activities, Emotions, and Relationships
[01:09:10] - Living by Compass, Not Clock
[01:10:27] - Jesus’ Example: About the Father’s Business
[01:11:50] - Time Has Purpose: God’s Will for Our Time
[01:16:16] - Kairos Moments: Divine Appointments
[01:19:01] - Don’t Miss the Moment: The DMV Encounter
[01:20:57] - Praying for Awareness and Obedience
[01:22:12] - Final Challenge and Prayer
[01:23:20] - Closing and Blessing

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: “It’s About Time”

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### Bible Reading

Ephesians 5:15-17 (ESV)
> Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

Psalm 90:12 (ESV)
> So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.

2 Corinthians 5:18-20 (ESV)
> All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Ephesians 5:15-17, what does Paul say is the wise way to live, and why does he say it’s important?
2. In Psalm 90:12, what does the psalmist ask God to teach us, and what is the result of learning this lesson?
3. The sermon said, “Every second of your life is a non-refundable payment. What are you buying?” What does this mean in practical terms? [[59:10]]
4. What are some examples the sermon gave of “toxic time wasters” that can drain our time and energy? [[01:03:08]]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think Paul connects wisdom with how we use our time in Ephesians 5? What does it mean to “make the most of every opportunity”?
2. The sermon said, “Time is a mirror, and it truly reflects what you value. Where you spend your time will show what’s really important to you.” How does this idea challenge the way we think about our daily routines? [[01:00:21]]
3. The sermon described “kairos moments” as divine appointments—special opportunities God gives us. How can someone recognize these moments in their own life? [[01:16:16]]
4. 2 Corinthians 5 says God has given us the “ministry of reconciliation.” How does this relate to the way we use our time and the purpose God has for us?

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon said, “Every second of your day, every scroll, every video, every conversation—are you spending your time, or are you investing it?” What is one area of your life where you feel you are just spending time instead of investing it? What could you do differently this week? [[56:16]]
2. Think about your daily or weekly schedule. What does it reveal about your true priorities? Is there something you want to change so your time better reflects what you value most? [[01:00:21]]
3. The sermon warned about “toxic activities, emotions, and relationships” that waste our time. Is there a specific activity, emotion, or relationship that is draining your time or distracting you from God’s purpose? What step could you take to guard your time in this area? [[01:03:08]]
4. The pastor said, “You don’t live according to your clock. You live according to your compass.” What would it look like for you to let God’s direction (your “compass”) guide your schedule this week, instead of just your to-do list? [[01:09:10]]
5. Have you ever experienced a “kairos moment”—a time when you sensed God was giving you a special opportunity to make an eternal impact? What happened, and how did you respond? [[01:17:06]]
6. The sermon challenged us to pray for awareness and obedience to God’s divine appointments. What is one practical way you can be more aware of these moments in your daily life? [[01:20:57]]
7. The pastor said, “There is no backup plan for your work. It’s you.” What is one thing you feel God is calling you to do with your time right now? How can the group support you in taking a step toward that calling? [[01:22:12]]

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Devotional

Day 1: Time is Priceless—Invest, Don’t Spend

Time is the most valuable resource we possess, more precious than money or possessions, because once it is gone, it cannot be reclaimed. Every moment, every scroll, every conversation is a non-refundable payment, and we are called to invest our time wisely rather than simply spending it on fleeting distractions. Just as a wise investor seeks to multiply what is entrusted to them, we are to treat each day as a gift from God, asking Him to teach us to number our days and use them for things that matter eternally. [56:16]

Ephesians 5:15-17 (ESV)
"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is."

Reflection: What is one way you can intentionally invest your time today in something that will have lasting, eternal value rather than simply spending it on what is fleeting?


Day 2: Time Reveals Priorities

Where you spend your time is a mirror reflecting what you truly value; your calendar and your habits reveal your real priorities, not just your intentions. If you want to grow in strength, wisdom, or faith, you must invest your time in the things that build those qualities—whether it’s working out, studying, or seeking God through His Word and community. The way you allocate your hours shapes who you become, so let your time reflect the person you desire to be in Christ. [01:01:10]

Psalm 90:12 (ESV)
"So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom."

Reflection: Looking at your past week, what does your use of time say about your true priorities, and what is one adjustment you can make to better align your time with what matters most to God?


Day 3: Protect Your Time from Toxic Distractions

Not everything that demands your attention deserves your time; toxic activities, emotions, and relationships can drain your energy and distract you from your God-given purpose. Just as Jesus did not respond to every accusation or get pulled into every conflict, you are called to guard your time, set healthy boundaries, and seek wisdom about where and with whom you invest yourself. Holding your tongue, saying “no” to drama, and focusing on what God has called you to do are all forms of wise time management that honor Him. [01:08:07]

Proverbs 4:23 (ESV)
"Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."

Reflection: Is there a toxic activity, emotion, or relationship that is stealing your time and focus? What boundary or step can you take today to protect your time and invest it where God is leading?


Day 4: Live by God’s Compass, Not Just the Clock

True purpose is found not in simply filling your schedule, but in aligning your time with God’s direction and mission for your life. Like Jesus, who at twelve years old declared He must be about His Father’s business, you are called to live with a sense of holy purpose, letting God’s will and vision guide your decisions rather than just the demands of the day. Surrendering your time to Christ means asking Him daily, “What do You want me to do?” and letting His priorities shape your path. [01:10:27]

Luke 2:49 (ESV)
"And he said to them, 'Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?'"

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to shift from living by the clock to living by God’s compass, and how can you invite Him to direct your time and choices today?


Day 5: Seize Divine Appointments—Your Time Has Purpose

God has set before you specific, divine moments—kairos opportunities—to make an eternal impact, whether through sharing your faith, serving others, or simply being present in someone’s life. These moments may come disguised as interruptions or ordinary encounters, but when your awareness and obedience align with God’s timing, they become life-changing for you and others. Ask God to open your eyes to these appointments and give you the courage to step into them, knowing that your time on earth is short and precious. [01:20:57]

Colossians 3:2 (ESV)
"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."

Reflection: Can you recall a recent moment when you sensed God was inviting you into a divine appointment? How can you be more attentive and responsive to these opportunities in the days ahead?

Quotes

``Every second of your day, every scroll, every video, every conversation, are you spending your time, or are you investing it? Psalm 90 says it this way. Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Time is the most valuable resource that we have, and with a resource that valuable, you should never spend it. You should always invest it. [00:56:04] (34 seconds)  #InvestYourMoments Edit Clip

Every second of your life, stay with me, is a non-refundable payment. What are you buying? Every second of your life, you will never get it back. Time is priceless, and while it can't be stopped, we have the ability to control how and where we invest it. How are you spending your time? Because it's priceless. [00:59:44] (37 seconds)  #NonRefundableSeconds Edit Clip

Time reveals priorities. I could pull a table forward here and put some rocks and some sand and some water and some pebbles. You and I could say, you know, you need to make your priorities fit first and then pour everything else in. Or I could just say the truth is that time is a mirror, and it truly reflects what you value. Where you spend your time will show what's really important to you. Because where your time goes, your character follows. [01:00:23] (36 seconds)  #TimeReflectsValues Edit Clip

Did you know that holding your tongue is a form of time management? I'm not very good at it, if I'm honest. You don't need to respond to everyone. Well, I'm going to defend myself, and I didn't deserve this, and how could they say that, and I'm going to give them a piece of my mind? You need all the mind you have. Keep it. Well, isn't it Christian to respond to everybody? We have to respond to everybody. Jesus didn't. [01:07:29] (33 seconds)  #SilentStrength Edit Clip

You need to be a broken elevator. Don't get pulled into other people's drama. They can push whatever button they want. You're not moving. I'm out of order to your drama. Time is too short. It's too precious to get engaged in toxic relationships. Protect your time because you can never get it back. [01:08:21] (26 seconds)  #DramaFreeZone Edit Clip

You don't live according to your clock. You live according to your compass. See, a clock represents a block of time, but a compass represents vision, purpose, and direction. And that's how we see Jesus live. See, a clock can give you time, but a compass should guide your time. [01:09:18] (25 seconds)  #CompassNotClock Edit Clip

It's not following a clock, but it's living according to your compass and surrendering the management of your time to Christ, to God's will. God, what do you want me to do? I love the way Paul says it in Galatians 2. I have been crucified with Christ. It's no longer I who live. I don't decide how to spend my time, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith. Look how the Amplified clarifies this. By adhering to, relying on, and completely trusting in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself up for me. [01:11:01] (37 seconds)  #LiveByFaith Edit Clip

I believe one of the most important questions, the most impactful questions we will ever be asked, is when God asks us, what did you do with the time that I gave you? See lots of people get to the end of their life and they think, where have I spent my time? The truth is, most don't even make it all the way to the end. About the middle of it, they have what's known as a mid-life, what? Because they worked hard and they climbed the ladder of success only to realize they leaned it on the wrong building. They succeeded in accomplishing something that never mattered. It's insignificant. [01:13:54] (49 seconds)  #LegacyOfTime Edit Clip

Or you can have eternal impact as a part of the kingdom of God. How? By saving others and serving the church. This will last forever. Everything else, clothes, jacket, cars, houses, all of it, is nothing but a tool to accomplish God's mission on this earth. But we get so focused, I find myself getting so focused on the here and the now that we can miss what's eternal. [01:14:42] (35 seconds)  #DivineMoments Edit Clip

Divine appointments happen when God's timing and our awareness, and I added this for second service, divine appointments happen when God's timing, our awareness, and obedience align. God, I'm looking for those moments. I know that time is precious and running out. Help me to see those moments. Be your hands and feet and live with purpose. [01:21:49] (28 seconds) Edit Clip