Time management God's way
Maybe you’re thinking, I don’t have time to manage my time.You’re not alone. It is ironic how little time people invest in making sure they are making good use of their time. Worst still, the busier we are, the less time we invest to make sure our busyness is worthwhile and profitable. I recognize this is not news; just consider it a reminder that time is the one thing we can’t get back or produce.
This reminder suggests two words of encouragement. First, though God is timeless, He is the producer and owner of time. Secular self-help books and articles are not the places to turn for help with time management—particularly when you have access to the Author. Second, God will do exceedingly, abundantly more than we can ask or think with the time we surrender to His good work.
As a conscientious leader, you’re already making plans for next year (if not, you should be). Regardless of your success in 2018, you may consider taking things to the next level. Before you do that, consider these time management strategies to help you focus 2019 on the One who has given you that time:
1. Establish your calendar before the chaos begins—daily, weekly, monthly, etc. If the Lord is your CEO, then give Him your calendar (as an offering). Allow Him to manage your time in His supernatural ways.
2. Put to-do items on your calendar. Treat them like meetings with important clients. Don’t allow interruptions. Stay focused. You have been given the gift of self-control. Use it.
3. Don’t let your smartphone manage you. Set your attention toward God’s voice, rather than man’s voice. Return phone calls when you cannot do anything else (e.g., driving). If necessary, allocate 30 minutes in the middle and at the end of your day to return calls.
Remember, business and spiritual growth are processes. Be patient with yourself and those in your spheres of influence. Also, decisions are more important than actions. Setting aside time to make good decisions is one of the most profitable things you can do.
Finally, consider this: The CEO of your life desires to spend time with you each morning, preparing you for the important assignments He has made for you to walk in (Ephesians 2:10). He loves talking with His children. Put that time on your calendar—not figuratively, actually put it there—and protect it with your life. It will become the most profitable investment you make all year.
God bless you with courage and grace to embrace His way for time management.
Photo source: istock
 | Rob Streetman serves the body of Christ as President of two parachurch ministries: inLight Consulting (a workplace transformation ministry) and 2:2 Collective (a unity and church growth ministry). He is the author of two books: The Map Maker and A Storm is Coming. Rob’s heart desires is to encourage, edify and equip Christian leaders as disciple-makers and transformation agents—that they would become houses that stand in the storms of this life. He previously worked in various IT industry positions. Learn More » |
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