Appropriate In Its Time

The writer of Ecclesiastes sagely wrote, “He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also put eternity in their hearts” (Ecc. 3:11). To be honest, I prefer the New King James Version over the Christian Standard Bible for this verse. The NKJV uses the word “beautiful” rather than “appropriate.” Sometimes, presumably in an effort to be as linguistically accurate as possible, the CSB version sounds slightly wooden.

But upon further reflection, even though it’s less poetic, perhaps “appropriate” is a fitting word choice. Certain things aren’t appropriate at all times. You can do good things too soon or too late. A child may attempt something that is only appropriate for adults. An adult may enjoy activities more suitable for a child. Timing is key.

In the first eight verses, the writer lists various pairs of human endeavors. Sometimes it’s more appropriate to weep than laugh (4). Certain times are better for beginnings rather than endings (2). Each activity is appropriate in its time. The key is understanding the timing.

We just completed another year. Hopefully yours was fruitful and rewarding. But it’s finished. Now we all face an important question: What kind of year lies ahead? What undertakings are appropriate for the next twelve months?

In order to experience all God has in store for you this year, you must take a few important steps. First, don’t enter the year with unfinished business. Quickly address whatever you left undone last year and then wipe the slate clean so you can start the year fresh.

Second, plan and prepare. It’s inappropriate to attempt major endeavors without proper preparation. Take time to pray and develop a plan of attack before moving forward.

Third, don’t assume last year’s assignments will carry over into this year. Time has moved on. Opportunities may have past. If you’re struggling to make progress, perhaps it’s because you’re still pursuing last year’s goals. Seek God’s will for you now.

Fourth, be aware of alignment. Some activities are not appropriate at certain times due to external circumstances. Perhaps advancing in your career would require additional travel, but you currently have a child in high school. Traveling more now may be inappropriate, but your situation might change in a year or two after that child graduates. Maybe you’re a newlywed and taking on additional work this year would be unwise. That doesn’t mean it will never be appropriate to accept extra responsibilities. Ask yourself, “For this year, which goals are appropriate and which ones aren’t?”

Finally, seize the day when the timing is right. Perhaps you have dreamed of writing a book or running a marathon, but the timing never seemed quite right. As you prayerfully consider the upcoming year, you may discover that it is perfectly suited for some undertakings that never seemed right in the past. Is this the year you’ve been waiting for?

The best way not to have regrets at the end of each year is to begin each one properly. Every year holds unique opportunities and dangers. Prayerfully consider the year you are entering. Make any adjustments that are required. Then proceed with confidence and determination.