What is of most importance? I have so many roles! Wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, teacher, worship leader, my own personal trainer, home chef, shopper, maid, and laundry queen to name a few. Okay, those last few were a bit silly, but don’t you feel that way also? So many roles and responsibilities – and they are all so dear to me (except the laundry). We are a busy, overwhelmed people! Prioritizing time becomes a difficult balance.

 

Colossians 3:23 says: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.

 

Time ticks away. Some days I work and work and work so hard and am disappointed at how many items are left on my checklist. Some days I end the day realizing I have barely spoken to those who are dearest to me. And then some days……I sadly squander my time foolishly. I know the order should be God first, then spouse, family/friends, and career, but that is over-simplified. Sometimes the order gets muddled in the busyness of life and the fun things I want to do or the laziness I may feel. And time still ticks away….

 

The Bible speaks of the way we use our time and how to set our priorities straight. If I do whatever I feel, I will not accomplish much. But if I trust my commodity of time with God the Father and give of myself and my talents to Him, He helps me use this mist of life for His glory as a greater blessing to others. While I do not have a handy checklist in regards to using our time, I know consulting God about the use of time is always a good idea. Some things to ponder.

1. Am I using my time for good works? 

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. -Ephesians 2:10

2. Is my focus where it should be?

Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. -Proverbs 4:25-26

3. Am I showing love to God and to others?

In the book of Mark chapter 12 verses 28-31, a teacher asks Jesus which is the most important commandment. Jesus answers: 

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself.”

4. When involved in the mundane, do I keep a happy spirit and work industriously? 

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. -Colossians 3:23

5. Am I seeking Him and His will in the use of my time?

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. -Matthew 6:33

 

So when I become concerned about balancing life and setting priorities in order, I ask God about it! Take a deep breath, pray, and then look at that checklist again. It all becomes clearer with God’s wisdom and guidance. If we make God our #1 priority, He allows everything else to fall into place!

Emily Kilby
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