Don't Waste Your Time

"Hurry, time is running out!"  "I don't have the time."  "Time marches on."  "Time is just flying by!"  There are so many expressions that we have in our language to try and capture the reality that our time is limited and constantly, perpetually converting the future into the past.  And while there are obviously huge implications when we think about the time each one of us has living on earth, there are also huge implications for a faithful physical therapist to consider.

I have now been a physical therapist for 8 years.  That time has passed in the blink of an eye because I have examined and treated hundreds upon hundreds of patients.  While I have seen all these people in my clinic, the reality is not only have I treated them, but that I’ve also spent time with them.  I spend countless hours of time with patients.  You spend countless hours of time with patients.   And it all adds up.

I figured out one time that I spend on average about 7 hours with a patient.  7 hours!  Some of you may spend even more time with your patients depending on the setting you work in and some of you may spend less time on average because of your specialty.  But the common denominator is we spend significant time with one person.  What would you do if you knew you were going to be spending hours with one person?  Would you have the same conversation over and over again?  Would you have hours in silence? Would you seek to learn about that individual?

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.”  Ephesians 5:15-16

This verse speaks to me and I hope it speaks to you.  What if we replaced the word “walk” with “work” or “care for patients.”  The call here, then, is the time we spend doing anything really matters in a broken, hurting world especially when it comes to our vocation.  We need to use our time wisely in all facets of life and we need to use our time wisely with our patients.

I would encourage you to reflect on this passage and the amount of time you spend with your patients.  Ask yourself introspectively if you are using the time God gives you with patients wisely or unwisely.  If we are using that time wisely, we will have more meaningful conversations with our patients during the 7 hour rehab adventure and hopefully include applicable faith gems that point to our hope in Christ in a world where the days are evil.

It’s not too late to begin! Pray that God would show you how to use your time wisely.  And also stay tuned for the next blog which will give you some practical ideas how to use your time wisely.
​
Jason

---