In conversation recently the subject of time and priorities came up. If I could see a time chart divided into the amount of time spent in a day, I wonder if I might be surprised at the time I waste on unimportant things.

This week I focused on Colossians 2:8 which reads: See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ.

I like to look into what words mean in their original Hebrew and Greek. My digging expedition turned up these interesting results.

Philosophy-the love of wisdom-busied with ritual and regulations.
Empty-those who claim faith with no fruit.
Deception-deceit.
Tradition-expanding the rituals and law of Moses to be obeyed with equal reverence.
World-the whole circle of earthly goods, although hollow and frail and fleeting, stir desire, seduce from God and are obstacles to the cause of Christ.

How much time do I spend busied on unimportant things when all the while the reality of Jesus, God with a face, has canceled my debt of sin against God on the cross so I may walk free of ritual, men’s regulations, and earthly goods?

Lord Jesus! Save me from unimportant distractions and empty passions.