Gratitude of Time

We all have the same 24 hours in a day, and how we choose to spend them can reveal a lot about our capacity for gratitude of time. While time is a finite resource, how we use it can profoundly impact our lives and the lives of those around us. In the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush and forget the importance of pausing to express gratitude for the moments we have. As we appreciate the present, we uncover the power of gratitude within the framework of time itself. We discover how the relationship between time and gratitude plays a key role in our daily lives.

Think about the story of Mary and Martha in the Bible. The sisters, Mary and Martha, welcome Jesus into their home. Martha was busy cooking and cleaning.  Mary chose to spend her time with Jesus, listening and learning. Jesus said Mary chose what was important. Her choice showed gratitude for the time with Jesus.

Luke 10:41-42 ~ “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Everyday Moments

You don’t have to be a genius or a saint to be thankful for time. A quick call to a friend you haven’t talked to in ages can mean a lot. Maybe spend a little extra time walking your dog. These are simple ways to show you’re grateful for the moments you have.

Studies show that being mindful of your time and how you use it can make you happier. When you focus on the present, stress goes down, and gratitude goes up. So, being thankful for time really is good for you.

When you value your time and show it, others catch on. Maybe you turn off your phone during dinner to have quality time with family. Your kids notice, and they might do the same with their friends. It’s like a ripple in water; it keeps going.

Bible Verses For Gratitude of Time

• Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

• Ephesians 5:16 – “Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”

• Colossians 4:5 – “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.”

When you’re aware of how precious time is, it becomes easier to be thankful. You might even find yourself enjoying the little things more, like a sunset or a home-cooked meal.

The Ripple Effect

Think of time like sand in an hourglass. Each grain is a moment you can’t get back. When you’re grateful for those grains, you spread positivity. Maybe you help an elderly neighbor with chores. That simple act could make their day better, and it started with you valuing your time.

Suppose you decide to spend your lunch break helping a coworker with a project. You didn’t have to, but you did. That coworker, feeling grateful, stays late to help another team. Your small act created a chain of good deeds. One by one, they add up.

Whether you’re young or old, how you use time matters. If you have grandkids, show them how important time is by spending quality time with them. Teach them to be mindful and thankful for each moment.

You don’t need a lot of time to make a big impact. Just like Mary in the Bible, sometimes choosing the better part means focusing on what’s right in front of you. Gratitude comes in all shapes and sizes. Every tick of the clock is a chance to show gratitude of time.

Uncommon Questions:

1. Have you ever given your time to someone and been surprised by how much it meant to them?
2. What’s one moment you wish you had savored more, and why do you think it slipped away?

Uncommen Challenge:

For one week, try the ‘Time Appreciation Challenge.’ Choose to spend at least 10 minutes each day fully focused on a simple joy, whether it’s reading, walking, or talking with a friend. Write down your experiences and feelings each day. At the end of the week, look back and see how this focus on time has affected you and those around you.