What Time Is It?

This question was seemingly asked more often in days gone by, the days before cell phones and smartwatches. The phrase “What time is it?” has more than one obvious meaning. One could be asking what time is it right now? Or one could be asking about time, as in whether it is time to do something, go somewhere, seize the moment, or relax, as well as numerous other meanings.

Discerning the times and being ready for various opportunities, including personal development and faith deepening, requires a combination of self-awareness, preparedness, and a clear sense of purpose. Here are some steps you can take to enhance your ability to discern and be ready for different aspects of life:

1. Cultivate self-awareness: Start by understanding yourself better—your values, strengths, weaknesses, and passions. Reflect on your goals, aspirations, and areas where you desire personal development and faith deepening. Knowing yourself well will help you align your choices with your values and priorities.
2. Set clear goals: Establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for personal development and faith deepening. Define what you want to achieve, why it’s essential, and the steps required to reach those goals. A clear direction will enable you to identify opportunities aligning with your objectives.
3. Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on current trends, advancements, and opportunities in your areas of interest. Read books, articles, and attend seminars or workshops on personal development and faith. Engage in conversations with knowledgeable individuals, join relevant online communities, and follow thought leaders or experts in your field. Staying informed will help you recognize emerging opportunities.
4. Embrace continuous learning: Cultivate a growth mindset and a willingness to learn and adapt. Engage in lifelong learning through reading, attending courses or webinars, listening to podcasts, or watching educational videos. Be open to new ideas and perspectives, as they can broaden your horizons and lead to unexpected opportunities.
5. Develop a routine: Establish a daily or weekly routine for personal development and deepening faith. Set aside dedicated reading, prayer, meditation, journaling, or reflection time. Having a structured routine will help you prioritize these critical aspects of your life and ensure you don’t overlook them amidst the busyness of daily life.
6. Seek guidance and mentorship: Surround yourself with supportive individuals who can offer advice and mentorship. Find a mentor who can provide valuable insights, wisdom, and accountability in your personal development and faith journey. Engaging in meaningful conversations with trusted individuals can help you discern the right opportunities and make informed decisions.
7. Practice discernment: Regularly practice discernment by reflecting on the choices and opportunities before you. Evaluate them against your values, goals, and priorities. Consider the potential impact they may have on your personal development and faith. Seek guidance through prayer, meditation, or seeking advice from trusted mentors. Trust your instincts and listen to your inner voice when making decisions.
8. Take action: Finally, be proactive and take action when opportunities arise. Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone, embrace new experiences, and seize the opportunities  that align with your personal development and faith goals. Remember that action is often necessary for growth and progress.

By following these steps and remaining intentional in your personal development and faith journey, you will enhance your ability to discern the times and be ready for various opportunities that come your way.