RJBM Bible Study: “Time is a Distraction to Eternity”

RJBM Bible Study: “Time is a Distraction to Eternity”

Time was created by God to serve His purposes on earth, but for the believer, eternity is the true reality.

When we allow time to dominate our thoughts, priorities, and anxieties, we risk becoming distracted from the eternal truths and promises that define our faith.

This study will help you reclaim an eternal mindset in a time-bound world.

Part 1: Understanding Time as a Created Thing

Key Verse:

“And God said, ‘Let there be lights in the vault of the sky… to mark sacred times, and days and years.’” — Genesis 1:14

Discussion Points:

   •   Time is not eternal — it was created — by God.

   •   God exists outside of time (Isaiah 57:15; Revelation 1:8).

   •   Time is a tool, not a master. It was never meant to define our value or limit our destiny.

Reflective Question:

How does realizing that time is created (not eternal) shift the way you view your life and goals?

Part 2: Eternity Is Our True Home

Key Verse:

“He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, He has set eternity in the human heart…” — Ecclesiastes 3:11

Discussion Points:

   •   We were created with an eternal purpose.

   •   Our spiritual identity longs for timelessness, even if we don’t always recognize it.

   •   Earthly achievements fade, but eternal investments endure.

Supporting Verses:

   •   John 17:3 – Eternal life begins with knowing God.

   •   Philippians 3:20 – “Our citizenship is in heaven.”

Reflective Question:

In what areas of your life have you traded eternal values for temporary satisfaction?

Part 3: Time as a Source of Distraction

Key Verse:

“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” — James 4:14

Discussion Points:

   •   Time can deceive us into thinking we have more of it than we actually do.

   •   Anxiety, stress, and pressure are often rooted in time-based expectations.

   •   Satan uses the illusion of time to delay and detour our obedience, devotion, and repentance.

Supporting Verses:

   •   2 Corinthians 4:18 – Focus on the unseen, not the temporary.

   •   Luke 12:19–20 – The parable of the rich fool: “This very night your life will be demanded from you.”

Reflective Question:

What distractions (based on time) are keeping you from focusing on the eternal?

Part 4: Jesus Invites Us Into Eternal Living Now

Key Verse:

“Now this is eternal life: that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” — John 17:3

Discussion Points:

   •   Eternal life doesn’t begin at death — it begins in relationship with Christ.

   •   Jesus came into time to release us from its tyranny.

   •   Eternity becomes our mindset when we abide in Him.

Supporting Verses:

   •   Colossians 3:2 – Set your minds on things above.

   •   Romans 12:2 – Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

Reflective Question:

How would your day-to-day actions change if you truly believed you were already living in eternity?

Part 5: Living With Eternity in Mind

Key Verse:

“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

Application Points:

   •   Redeem the time: Be purposeful, not panicked.

   •   Eternal lens: Ask, “How does this glorify God?”

   •   Freedom from anxiety: Let go of the ticking clock; trust in God’s timeless plan.

Practical Challenges:

   •   Begin each morning by asking: “What eternal purpose does God have for me today?”

   •   Fast from one activity this week that consumes your time but doesn’t build eternity — like social media.

   •   Memorize a verse about eternity (e.g., 2 Corinthians 4:18) and recite it when distracted.

Reflection Statement:

Time is a gift, but eternity is the goal. As believers, we are not bound by minutes and hours — we are bound by love and purpose that stretch into forever. Let us live each day not distracted by time, but devoted to eternity.

Closing Prayer:

Father, thank You for the gift of time and the promise of eternity. Help me to walk each day with a heart set on heavenly things, not earthly ones. Free me from the anxiety that time brings, and align me with the rhythm of Your eternal grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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