One of the best things about working from home is being able to wake up later, have a leisurely coffee and breakfast, and hop from “home” to “work” in a few seconds. No more long queues at the MRT (or bus) station, squeezing in with dozens of other commuters, and standing for the seemingly never-ending ride to office!
Unfortunately, that may change for some of us.
While many people will still be working from home, the easing of the Circuit Breaker restrictions means that some of us will be going back to our usual commutes. Even if it’s not to work, we might find ourselves back on the MRT or train to go for our weekly swim or long-awaited meet-up with friends.
A 2018 survey found that the average Singaporean spends 84 minutes—almost 1½ hours—on public transport every day. That works out to nearly 7 hours a week (not counting weekends), or 28 hours a month.
So, how can we use these 84 minutes well? Well, we know what we shouldn’t do in these Covid-19 times. To minimise the spread of droplets, we’ve been advised not to talk others or on the phone. So I guess most of us we will be using our mobile phones—texting, checking our Facebook or Instagram, reading articles, shopping online, or playing games.
If the Circuit Breaker has got you thinking about how you can draw closer to God—like making use of the time saved to read the Bible, pray, and do other things that nourish your faith—can I encourage you to starting using your commute time for spiritual benefit? It’s never too late to start!
As Ephesians 5:15–16 urges us: “Be very careful, then, how you live . . . making the most of every opportunity.”
Here are 5 suggestions that you may find helpful. (There are many, many Christian resources out there, of course, but since you’re at this Our Daily Bread Ministries website now, let me recommend a few of our resources—do check them out):
1. Listen to an audio recording of Scripture.
It has been estimated that if you listen to an audio recording of Scripture for just 50 minutes each day, you’d get through the entire Bible in just three months. So, the next time you find yourself standing in the crowded bus or train, just plug in your earphones—and soak in the life-transforming words of the Word of God.
There are lots of audio readings of the Bible available online, and in different languages too. Or, you could also listen to the daily devotions by Our Daily Bread at odb.org.
2. Read a short booklet to grow deeper in your faith.
Some people like to read books on the move, but if you find that challenging, why not try a booklet? Personally, I have found it helpful to read short books that won’t take me more than an hour. That means I can complete a book in just one or two days, and feel I’ve accomplished something.
One of my favourite go-to libraries is the Discovery Series, 32-page booklets that are short and easy to read. With more than 150 titles covering topics from apologetics, biblical characters, and Christian beliefs, to life issues, culture, and controversies, there’s no shortage of choice. Don’t know where to start? Try Timely Warnings: What Jesus Said About End Times, it’s a great topic for these uncertain times.
3. Listen to Christian songs
Download a playlist of Christian songs, meditate on the lyrics as you enjoy the tunes, and you’ll find the light of God’s grace brightening your entire day. Songs can help us acknowledge our need for God, express our gratitude to Jesus, and fix our minds on the Holy Spirit.
Here’s a playlist specially put together for your daily commute to help you dwell in God’s presence.
4. Download a Christian mobile app
Many Christian apps offer you quick access to Bible reading plans, devotional materials, and inspirational articles. Download one or two, and use it to guide you in your daily commute with God.
Or, you can try Our Daily Bread Ministries apps. Go to Google Play or Apple’s App Store, and search for “Our Daily Bread” (iOS | Android) or “YMI: Why Am I?” (iOS | Android).
5. Share about your faith on social media
Can’t get your eyes off Facebook, Instagram, or Telegram? How about populating your social media feeds with uplifting contents from God’s Word? After you’ve shared about that fantastic meal last night or an inspiring idea you had this morning, feed minds with biblical wisdom and strengthen souls with encouraging truths that will last the day.
If you’re looking for content to share, try Our Daily Bread Ministries’ Facebook and Instagram accounts. Or, subscribe to our Biblical Wisdom for Parents Telegram channel to get prayer prompts and parenting articles, or our Journey Through Series Telegram channel to get prompts to help you read through a selected book of the Bible.
How long do you spend on your daily commute? Imagine turning those minutes into fertile soil. What will you sow into it today?