The Next Best Thing
While jogging my usual neighborhood route, I listened to a podcast about time management. The irony does not escape me — a typical American, hearing about productivity while undertaking as many tasks as he possibly can at once. If I had enough air in my lungs while jogging, I would also return missed calls or compose emails with Siri. But I am no Olympian!
Redeeming the Time
The podcast was hosted by an author and recorded for authors, about finding time and forming discipline to generate weekly writing rhythms. The host discussed copious strategies employed by various authors ranging from 500 words/a day to 30 minutes/a sitting to 2-hour blocks/3 days a week. Some authors prefer rising in the dark of the morning to scribe fresh thoughts. Others favor winding down after a long day by composing cathartic emotions. Furthermore, some choose boisterous coffee shops with jazz music bouncing off the walls — the more noise, the better. Nevertheless, amid the writing strategies, the host offered a simple, yet profound concluding tip— “…do the next best thing.”
As you chase tomorrow’s dreams, do not miss today’s opportunities, for they will soon pass you by.
Rather than scheduling rushed blocks of time or forcing lifeless words, do what is natural. Maybe it is going for a walk to seek inspiration. Maybe it is reading a favorite novel to escape the pressures of life. Maybe it is quietly spending time alone with a hot cup of java. The best thing is the next thing.
Tomorrow’s Dreams — Today’s Opportunities
That strategic catchphrase caused me to gaze beyond author practices and contemplate Christian discipleship. As we pursue the Nazareth carpenter turned world Messiah, followers of Jesus find faith responsibilities as long as the Jordan River. Being transformed into the likeness of Christ is a multi-faceted makeover. At first blush, it can seem overwhelming.
But those simple, profound words ring true once more, “…do the next best thing.”
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It is admirable to aspire to be a Bible scholar, illustrious teacher, helpful mentor, influential leader, and spiritual hero, but do the next best thing, first, and those goals will be later realized.
- Before you become a Bible scholar, memorize important biblical texts.
- Before you become a spiritual master, deepen simple prayers.
- Before you become a mentor, find someone to guide you.
- Before you become an influential leader, become a Christ-like servant.
Sometimes, the next best thing is a tangible task that can be accomplished today.
- Visit a person who needs to be encouraged — you will likely leave more encouraged than them.
- Call someone you have missed — it will do your heart as much good as theirs.
- Hug a family member or friend — you’ll never know when you no longer can.
The apostle Paul urged the Christians in Ephesus, “Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity…” (Ephesians 5:15-16, NIV). Some Bible translations render it, “Redeeming the time.” The wisest decision you can make — the best redemption of your time — is to do the next best thing. As you chase tomorrow’s dreams, do not miss today’s opportunities, for they will soon pass you by.
Jacob Hawk, PhD, serves the Prestoncrest Church of Christ in Dallas, Texas. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Bible and Ministry from Harding University and a PhD in Christian Leadership from Liberty University. He is the author of five books: Image of the Invisible God; The Hawk’s Nest: 90 Lessons for Faith and Family; When Mountains Won’t Move: How to Survive a Struggling Faith; Blinded by Darkness; and BOLD: Statements that Changed History. Jacob produces a weekly podcast, Road Talk: Navigating Your Journey, which airs weekly out of his office. To follow along with Jacob Hawk’s writing and speaking ministry, visit www.drjacobhawk.com
