God’s Organic Time
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” Psalm 90:12.
The picture was taken by Lisa Stenger while camping (boondocking) in Delaware State Forest, Pennsylvania.
During childhood, restaurants, stores, and gas stations were closed on Sundays. We went to church even if we were on vacation or visiting our grandparents an hour away. The rest of the day was spent with family or friends. Our parents preplanned where we spent our day or who with. How we spend our time evolved naturally. No matter where it was, God orchestrated organic time. Our parents didn’t have to organize every minute, nor did they come up with entertaining plans for their children.
It was on these Sunday afternoons and evenings that family and friend connections were most meaningful. One of my favorite times was when my father and grandfather built a makeshift outdoor shower in the backyard on a hot day. My older sister was age 8, and I, five years old, put our bathing suits on, and everyone joined us in a fun time, taking turns and making a game out of the sprinkler time. My father tied something up to the back of the mower and took us on rides around the yard. It was a day filled with laughter and fun together as a family. None of which was planned. It fostered creativity, dreams, and visions among us. We learned the value of encouragement, mentoring, and support naturally.
Too often, we try to control our time rather than allowing it to unfold organically. In Psalm 90:12, God reminds us not to waste or mishandle time. He is not talking about filling it with insignificant tasks but using our time to glorify him. He wants us to STOP, LOOK, and LISTEN to notice all his creations and people around us. When camping, I can do this. I am away from distractions and the guilt of thinking I should be doing something productive. God wants us to remember not to waste a minute as if we have ample time living this life but to grow wisdom in our hearts by remembering he wants us to spend eternity with him. Our life here on earth is short and comes with consequences. So, take the time to notice the beauty of God's creations and feel more connected to the divine and the world around you.
Embrace the joy and fulfillment of living organically, noticing nature at your feet, and connecting to God and the people he places in your path. Be intentional in planning where and who, but let your time develop naturally. Create deeper relationships, allow alone time to notice God’s handiwork, and listen. The Holy Spirit wants to tell you something. Jesus modeled perfect relationships (John 15:13, 15) and a personal relationship with his Father (Mark 1:35). Don’t forget to spend some alone time to refresh your heart and mind (Luke 4:42). Enjoy the abundant life that God’s organic time brings!
