“I know I should _____ and I would do it,
…I just don’t have the time!”
How many times have these or similar words rattled around in our heads or rolled off our tongues. I think everyone can agree that at some time or another, we have allowed good intentions, purposes God has directed and laid on our hearts to remain undone because we can’t make time for it.
We will never be able to make time. God created time and if He allows us to see a new day, He gives us all the same 24 hours. Our role is to manage it wisely.
Ecclesiastes 3 speaks that there is a time for everything and in Ephesians 5:15-16 we are implored to make the most of every opportunity (redeem the time).
How well do you manage time? Consider this quick activity. Think back to last Thursday. In the following chart, approximate the amount of time spent on the varied activities:
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Activity
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Mins
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Work or school
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Travel time (driving riding)
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Personal hygiene
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Cooking/cleaning
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|
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Family Nurture
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Electronic communication (smartphone, email, facebook, twitter)
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|
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Secular Entertainment (TV, music, games, movies)
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|
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Social activities
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|
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Prayer
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|
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Bible Study and Devotion
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Christian Service
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Other
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Other
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Make it personal.
What does this activity reveal as to how well I redeem the time God has gifted me?
Does the amount of concentrated time spent in prayer,meditation, devotional reading and Bible study support spiritual maturity and a stronger relationship with the Lord?
Are some of my health/wellness/stewardship activities not being performed due to poor time management?
Is there too much on my schedule? What tasks can be deleted, delegated or deferred?
What adjustments are needed to make the most of every opportunity?
What change(s) will I make now?
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