By Maria I. Morgan One day – a 24-hour period of time. We’re all given the same number of minutes each day. For the most part, we determine how to use them. It’s been said that we make time for what’s important to us. So what’s important to you?

As you think back over the past week, how did you spend your time? Is there time you wished you had used differently?

Sometimes I’m selfish . . .

I’m a writer which means I spend a lot of time at home in front of my computer. If I’m not careful, I can get so absorbed in my writing projects that I avoid phone calls and don’t schedule time with friends. I get selfish with my time.

Over a year ago the Lord challenged me to step out of my comfortable writer’s zone and develop meaningful relationships with others:

Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another. Romans 12:10

Being intentional

While I know God created me to live in relationship with others, I have to be intentional with my time to do just that. And boy has God blessed. As an older woman, I’ve had the opportunity to pour into the lives of younger ladies – to see them grow in their faith and walk with them through life’s ups and downs. The Lord has also developed friendships with other women who have been able to challenge and encourage me.

The battle between living for self and living selflessly is very real. If I’m not careful, I can be so focused on my agenda that I miss God’s still, small voice. The good news? When I submit to God and seek His will, He makes my path clear. He wants me to live a life that showcases Him. The Bible puts it this way:

I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. John 15:5

A fruitful life

If you’re anything like me, you want to live a life that’s fruitful. A life that shares the gospel of Jesus Christ.  A life that is rich in love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. Do you recognize these characteristics? They are the fruit of the Spirit.

The key to producing “much fruit” is abiding in Christ. He wants us to be fruitful.

Your turn

Are you living for self or living a selfless life? What step will you take today to live selflessly?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me of the importance of living a selfless life. Forgive me for my selfishness. Help me submit to Your will and to walk in the power of Your Holy Spirit. Make my life fruitful for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*I’ve written a book, Outrageously Fruitful, that addresses this very issue. It’s a 10-week Bible study made up of a series of brief daily lessons that encourage you to take an honest look at your current behavior. It’s my desire that the Lord will use this study as a tool to reignite your faith and put it into action.

Would you like to win a copy of Maria’s book? Just leave a comment to be entered to win. 🙂

Maria I. Morgan is an inspirational writer and speaker. She is the award-winning author
of Louie’s BIG day! Regardless of the age of her audience, her goal is the same: to share God’s truth and make an eternal difference. She lives in the muggy South with her husband, two retrievers, and two Maine coon kitties ~ the perfect mix to fuel her creativity for years to come!