We live in a world that pushes us to control every minute of our day. From work schedules to to-do lists, the message is clear: productivity equals success. But as Christians, this mindset misses the point. Time doesn’t belong to us—it’s a gift from God. Learning to use it wisely isn’t about being in control; it’s about being faithful. That’s where time stewardship comes in.
The Problem with the World’s Time Management
The world’s approach to time management revolves around mastery. It’s about maximizing your time for your own benefit. That might sound appealing at first, but it can lead to a significant issue: it excludes God from the equation. Instead of viewing time as a gift from God, we treat it as if it’s entirely ours to manage.
As the lesson I learned says:
“The world’s practices, habits, and formations have so deeply and persistently shaped us that it is difficult to imagine them and practice something other than time management for the sake of one’s mastery and control of time.”
This focus on control makes us forget what’s most important: putting God first. The Bible reminds us in Romans 12:2 (NIV):
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Practicing time stewardship means breaking free from these worldly habits and allowing God to guide how we spend our time.
Why Time with God Matters
Making time for God isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a necessity. Jesus demonstrated this by prioritizing prayer, even during His busiest moments.
Mark 1:35 (NIV) says:
“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.”
If Jesus needed time with God, how much more do we? Spending time with God gives us strength, clarity, and peace. It helps us focus on what truly matters instead of getting caught up in the busyness of life.
Faithfulness Over Control
Here’s the thing: time stewardship isn’t about being perfect or hyper-organized. It’s about being faithful. It’s about saying, “God, my time is Yours. Show me how to use it for Your glory.”
As the lesson says:
“Time stewardship is about our faithfulness and obedience to God, rather than our control and mastery of time.”
This idea aligns with Psalm 90:12 (NIV), which says:
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
Recognizing that time belongs to God changes everything. It helps us stop worrying about controlling every moment and start trusting Him with our schedule.
Living Counter-Culturally
Let’s be honest: living this way isn’t easy. The world loves busyness and self-reliance. Choosing to slow down and put God first might even seem strange to others. But it’s worth it. When we make God the center of our time, we show the world a better way to live.
Matthew 6:33 (NIV) reminds us:
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
When we focus on God, everything else falls into place.
How to Practice Time Stewardship
- Start Your Day with God: Spend a few minutes in prayer or reading the Bible before diving into your day.
- Make Time Sacred: Set aside specific times for prayer, worship, or reflection and protect them like you would any important meeting.
- Honor Rest: Take a day each week to unplug, rest, and focus on God. Sabbath rest is a gift!
- Reflect on Your Priorities: Are you spending time on what truly matters? Regularly ask God to guide your schedule.
- Stay Flexible: Trust that God’s timing is perfect, even when things don’t go as planned.
It’s About God, Not Us
At the end of the day, time stewardship isn’t about us. It’s about honoring God and using the time He’s given us wisely. Every moment we spend with Him is an investment in our faith and our relationship with Him.
Let’s remember what **Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)** says:
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
Our time is a gift from God. Let’s use it to draw closer to Him and make a difference for His kingdom. When we do, we’ll experience the peace and purpose that only He can provide.
Discover more from imageofmyfather.com
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.