In the devotional for today, we are looking at the topic “Make Every Second Count.” This is a continuation of our “Wisdom for the New Year” series. If you missed yesterday’s devotional on Pray Without Ceasing, you might want to read it.

Daily Devotional for Today (January 4, 2025) – Make Every Second Count

Scripture Focus: John 9:4

As we keep making progress in the year 2025, picking wisdom nuggets for the year, it is important for us to understand how fleeting time is and the need for us to make the most out of every second that we have here on Earth or in this year.

I often ask myself, how do the high and mighty get things done with the same time that we all have and it seems I am unable to do so much?

I know you may think that it is because they have other people doing the things they want to be done. But that is one side of the solution. One thing that is given to everyone of us is time. All of us have 24 hours every day. Nobody has more or less. How we use our time is what defines what we get out of life.

Sadly, every time lost can never be regained. The best time to get something done was yesterday and the next best time is now.

Jesus was speaking to the people in John 9:4 that He ought to be doing His Father’s business. Not only because that is what He came to do but because there will be a time when no man can work. There is going to be a time when your energy would be gone and if you did not make use of the time you have now, you are going to be full of regrets.

How do you make the most of your time this year?

There are several points to note about making use of your time. One thing which is commonly discussed in time management and productivity is to set clear goals. Don’t live your life or go through this year on vibes or the steroids of new year resolutions. Set clear, simple, and achievable goals for your life this year.

Don’t stop there. Break these goals into actionable and achievable steps. If you set a goal to be on fire for God this year, which is a very important goal, you can break it down to say:

1. I will pray one hour every day without fail
2. I will study three chapters of the Bible every day
3. I will fast on Wednesday and Friday every week
4. I will listen to three sermons every week
5. I will go preach about Jesus to someone at least once this week

This is how you set clear goals.

After the goal setting hurdle, make time for the things you need to do. Allocate time to each of the things you should do and stick with it.

Then, learn to say NO. There are people who might have ideas about how they hope you will use your time. Do not give anyone the liberty to decide your time for you.

Lastly, resist the urge to want to do too many things. There is no point. Focus on the things that matter. Focus on the things God needs you to do and stick to it. You are not strong enough to be about too many things at the same time.

Remember, there is going to be a time when your energy would be gone and if you did not make use of the time you have now, you are going to be full of regrets.

January 4 Prayers 

Let’s say the following prayers for today before you go:

1. Father, thank You for reminding me of the importance of time. I acknowledge my error in taking time for granted and I ask that You forgive my mistake.
2. Lord, today, I ask that you help me make the most of my time here on the Earth. Give me the wisdom to know the right thing to do and the willingness to be able to do it at the right time.
3. Father, help me to be disciplined with my time, to prioritize my goals, and to say NO when I need to. Thank You Lord, in Jesus name.