Managing Time with a Christ-Centered Focus
Have you ever looked at the clock and thought, “Where did the day go?” Or perhaps you’ve found yourself juggling tasks, trying to meet deadlines, only to realize that prayer, Scripture, and quiet time with God got bumped off your schedule—again. You’re not alone. Time is one of the greatest gifts God has given us, and yet, it's also one of the most mismanaged. In our fast-paced world, we are often overwhelmed, overcommitted, and spiritually undernourished.
But what if there’s a better way? What if instead of squeezing God into our schedules, we built our schedules around Him?
Welcome to Managing Time with a Christ-Centered Focus.
The Myth of “Not Enough Time”
Let’s get one thing straight: We all have the same 24 hours in a day. What differs is how we use them. The real issue is not time shortage but time stewardship. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 5:15-16:
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
Paul isn’t just warning us about wasting time; he’s calling us to redeem it. That means taking what we’ve been given and using it in a way that honors God.
First Things First: Start With God
Imagine starting your day with Jesus—not your phone, not the news, not your to-do list. Just Him. When we begin with God, we gain His perspective for our day.
Jesus Himself modeled this in Mark 1:35:
“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 the Son of God needed time alone with the Father, how much more do we?
Create a sacred space in your schedule—a non-negotiable moment to meet with God. Whether it’s five minutes or fifty, give Him the first fruits of your time.
Prioritize with Purpose
Living a Christ-centered life doesn’t mean cramming your calendar with only “church stuff.” It means putting Christ at the center of everything—your work, your parenting, your errands, your rest.
Matthew 6:33 is our compass:
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
When we put God’s priorities above our own, everything else falls into place. That might mean saying no to good things in order to say yes to the best things. It could mean limiting screen time, setting boundaries at work, or simplifying commitments.
Ask yourself: Does this align with what God wants for me right now? That simple question can reshape your day.
Invite God Into the Mundane
One of the most beautiful truths about our faith is that God cares about the small things. He walks with us not only in worship services, but in grocery store aisles, traffic jams, diaper changes, and spreadsheet deadlines.
Colossians 3:23-24 says:
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters… It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
When you fold laundry, do it with a heart of gratitude. When you answer emails, let kindness be your language. When you run errands, pray for the people around you. Every moment becomes sacred when done for Christ.
Margin Matters: Rest Is Holy
God Himself rested (Genesis 2:2). Jesus often withdrew to quiet places (Luke 5:16). Sabbath is not a suggestion—it’s a commandment.
In our attempt to do it all, we often forget that rest is part of God's design. Over-scheduling is not a badge of honor—it’s a warning sign. A Christ-centered schedule includes space to breathe, reflect, worship, and just be.
Psalm 46:10 reminds us:
“Be still, and know that I am God.”
Stillness allows us to recalibrate. In the quiet, we hear His voice. Don’t fill every margin; embrace the beauty of enough.
A Prayerful Planner
Prayer is not just something we do at the beginning and end of the day. It can guide us throughout our time management. Before saying yes to a new responsibility, pray. Before making a to-do list, pray. Before tackling your schedule, ask:
“Lord, what would You have me do today?”
James 1:5 offers this encouragement:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
God is eager to lead you in the wise use of your time. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Let Grace Be Your Guide
Lastly, remember that time management is not about perfection. It's about direction. You will have messy days. You will forget. You will get sidetracked.
But God’s grace is sufficient.
Lamentations 3:22-23 reassures us:
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Each day is a fresh chance to walk in step with Him.
Final Thoughts
Time is one of the most valuable resources we have. When managed with a Christ-centered focus, it becomes more than a checklist—it becomes a ministry.
So, start your day with Him. Prioritize with purpose. See the sacred in the small. Rest without guilt. Pray through your plans. And walk in grace.
Let’s strive not just to manage our time, but to honor God with it.
Let’s Talk!
How do you manage your time with a Christ-centered focus? What helps you stay grounded in faith amid a busy schedule? Do you have any tips or favorite Scriptures that help keep your priorities in check?
Share your thoughts in the comments! Your wisdom might be just what someone else needs today.
A Prayer to Close
Lord,
Thank You for the time You’ve given me today. Help me to use it wisely, with You at the center of every hour. Teach me to slow down, to prioritize what matters most, and to walk in Your rhythms of grace. May my time reflect my love for You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Blessings on your journey,
James Steele
Walks With The Lord
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