“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
Ephesians 5:15-16
Question
Chad Pennington, Giovanni Carmazzi, Chris Redman, Tee Martin, Marc Bulger and Spergon Wynn. Do you know what these men have in common? These were the quarterbacks taken ahead of Tom Brady in the 2000 NFL draft when Brady was selected by New England with the 199th pick in the 6th round.
Still Going Strong
In 20 seasons, Tom Brady led the Patriots to the playoffs 16 times, including 9 Super Bowl appearances and 6 Super Bowl wins. Now at the age of 43, Brady has thrown 4,234 yds, 36 TDS, and only 11 INTs while leading the Tampa Bay Bucs to a 10-5 record this year.
A Single Purpose
His success on the gridiron is unquestioned, but Brady’s off-the-field lifestyle is equally legendary. In short, Brady’s entire life – diet/exercise/sleep/schedule - is oriented toward a single purpose. To be the best player he can be for as long as possible.
Centered NOT Balanced
In his book What’s Best Next: How the Gospel Transforms the Way You Get Things Done, Matt Perman makes an interesting observation: “I don’t believe our lives can be or are supposed to be balanced. I believe we are to seek to be centered, not balanced.”
In large part, Brady’s success can be attributed to a singular purpose that shapes every area of his life. Tom Brady seeks to be centered, not balanced.
Unwavering Focus on Christ
Can the same be said of us? Are the habits and routines that shape our lives aligned toward a singular and unwavering commitment to Christ? As MD5 men, our aim is not to strike a balance across 5 independent but important areas of life. It is to create an unwavering focus to keep Christ at the center of every area so we can be the most productive Christian for as long as possible.
Redeem the Time
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16). Our mandate as Christians is not to balance our time or find the time or make the time; it is to “redeem the time."
An Honest Assessment
Are you making the most of every opportunity? Would an honest assessment of your regular routines (how you spend your time) reflect an intentional discipline and commitment to being the most productive Christian possible?
Let’s make 2021 the most productive year yet. Let’s make the most of every opportunity.
John Meriweather
MD5 Facilitator
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