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For many years now there’s been a steady trend in education called “grade inflation.” It means that every year more and more A’s are given out regardless of how well the student actually performs. While the report card still reads “average” for a C, in reality only the bottom 10% make C’s.
Maybe grade inflation comes from the idea that we all want to be above average at everything we do. But, by definition, everyone cannot be above average. That’s why we have to choose what things we want to excel in and devote adequate time to those activities.
Just as Joshua challenged the people of his day to “Choose you this day whom you will serve” we must also choose what we will serve and not let it trouble us if we can’t be above average in everything else.
Academic grades can be manipulated by people. But no one can manipulate their standing before God. That’s why excelling at what He wants will redeem the time.
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Someone created the following list of golden rules for everyday living:
If you open it, close it.
If you turn it on, turn it off.
If you unlock it, lock it up.
If you break it, admit it.
If you can’t fix it, call in someone who can.
If you borrow it, return it.
If you value it, take care of it.
If you make a mess, clean it up.
If you move it, put it back.
If it belongs to someone else, get permission to use it.
If you don’t know how to operate it, leave it alone.
And, if it’s none of your business, don’t ask questions.
That list of advice can basically all be boiled down to one word—responsibility.
Responsibility simply means taking the time to treat other people like you want to be treated. It’s what Jesus meant when He said to love your neighbor as yourself. And practicing that golden rule will redeem the time.
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"Setting the right goals is one of the first steps to redeeming the time. Living life without clearly defined goals is like taking a trip without a destination in mind. It is frustrating and meaningless.
Someone has noted that a good set of goals will be measurable, treasurable, and pleasurable.
First, goals must be measurable. It’s nice to say “I want to do something great for God.” But that’s hard to measure. Be more specific like, “I want to go to the park today and pass out 25 gospel tracts.”
Secondly, goals must be treasurable. That is, they must connect with a cause you treasure and find meaningful. Set goals that move you toward fulfilling a cause close to your heart. It has to be your goal before you’ll pursue it with passion.
Finally, the right goal will be pleasurable. It will give you a great sense of satisfaction and fulfillment that will keep you motivated and make you want to redeem the time.
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An experienced trucker told a new driver, “Here’s a tip to stay awake on long hauls. Put a $100 bill in your hand and hold it out the window.”
While I am not advocating driving while drowsy, I do think the trucker was onto a good principle for productivity because working late into the night can be an effective method of tackling a big project. There are several advantages of working through the night, probably the greatest of which is the ability to work without interruptions.
The phone never rings at 3:00 in the morning and no one knocks at your door. If you’re working at the office, you’ll get very few drop-in visitors at that hour and interruptions are probably the greatest hindrance to getting any major project done.
Scripture records times when people prayed late into the night. Maybe you should consider doing likewise on the big project you’re procrastinating on right now. It might just be your best way to redeem the time.
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