The Value of Being Timed

Several years back, I was asked to speak in a church that had some fun with the “clock.”  They humored me with the opportunity to take a picture of their clock on the back wall that said, “Lot’s wife looked back.”  (The biblical narrative is found in Genesis 19.)  I don’t know where they got the idea, but it’s made for some laughs along the way.

I’ve also been privileged to speak in many environments that have especially reflected a value for time.  Upon arrival, I've received a timed schedule and when I began to share the teaching or lecture, a countdown digitized clock was in direct view from the podium.  Some might be tempted to criticize or downplay the need for such tools.  And, yet, you can't deny a respect for the critical use of their audience's attention span.  As a matter of fact, not only have I respected that time, but I felt that my presentation was even better.  

So, why do we need to value being timed?

Being timed demands a deeper awareness of the material before we present it.

Being timed encourages a sharper presentation as a whole.

Being timed accentuates the truth that it's about the audience, not the speaker.

Being timed acknowledges that God works within healthy order.

Whatever the environment calls for, value the clock by knowing that your part is to be an effective vehicle of inspired information, and then sit down.  If that was too much to the point, that’s the idea.  And, that’s the value…!