“A wise man’s heart discerneth both time and judgment. Because to every purpose there is time and judgment …” (Ecclesiastes 8:6)
Solomon understood what a “waste of time” meant. As he reflected back on his life, he counted so many things that weren’t worth the time, effort, energy, and resources he expended on them. He called them “vanity,” or nothing.
But what he did deem important is a proper understanding of the season one was in. Complaining about the season will never help us get anything out of it. Wishing it was summer when it’s winter isn’t going to help us deal with the snow and ice. A wise person looks to get every last drop of good out of every life scenario they face.
The godliness you can gain from today’s trial may be a limited time offer. Seasons change. Yes, a better day may be in your future; but what you need much more than fair weather is godly character. Gold can be gained in the painful fire you want out of. Fruit conducive to this unique season can be added to your life; or, you can leave this season with little or nothing to show for it.
There are things that God wants us to put on the back burner. This doesn’t mean they aren’t important. They may well be vitally important when it comes to the whole of our life, and in due season they will find their proper place. But there are other front burner issues that God wants you to focus on today.
Growth in God requires diligent attendance to the purpose of the season. A wise man is not pining away for a better tomorrow, he is all hands on deck for the life before him. Don’t be asleep for the harvest at hand. Don’t let this special season go to waste. Don’t forget about the back burner entirely, but tend to the front burner.
“He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster” (Proverbs 18:9)