Background Information
The bible is considered by many to be the ultimate source of spiritual guidance, offering worldly advice and timeless wisdom. When it comes to time management, the bible has a lot to say about the importance of effective time management, making sure our actions are purposeful and that we give priority to what is most important. While the bible is often seen as a book of rules and regulations, it is also full of important messages about how to use our time wisely, in order to gain the most out of life.
Religious Perspectives
The bible emphasizes the importance of using our time in a way that is pleasing to God. In Ecclesiastes 9:10, it urges us to use our time wisely, saying “whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might”. The bible also tells us to plan ahead, with Proverbs 21:5 saying that “wise planning wins favor, but hasty schemes are folly”. The bible also warns us to be aware of the temptations of procrastination and to make wise use of our time, reminding us in 1 Corinthians 6:12 that “everything in this world has value, but only god knows the value of time”.
Personal Accountability
The bible also emphasizes that we have a duty to be personally accountable for the time we manage. In the book of Galatians, it reminds us that “each person will be judged according to the deeds done in the body”— ultimately, all that we did in our lifetime or not, will be judged. This means that we must be aware of how we are using our time, and ensure that we are living up to our fullest potential. Additionally, the bible tells us to be prepared for Christ’s return and to always be ready for the coming of the Lord, with Matthew 24:44 saying that “so you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him”.
Focus and Prioritisation
We can also learn lessons from the bible about focus and prioritisation. In James 3:17, it says, “the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere”. This message tells us to focus and prioritise on the things that are good and valuable and to avoid being consumed by the unimportant. Additionally, Proverbs 16:9 advises us to “be careful to choose the perfect time and to be slow to change”— reminding us to think carefully before making decisions and to take the time to deliberate, rather than rushing into things.
Living for God
Ultimately, the bible encourages us to use our time in a way that is pleasing to God and that glorifies his name. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, it reminds us to “do everything for the glory of God” and in Ephesians 5:16 to “redeem the time for the days are evil”— teaching us to live our lives in such a way that is meaningful and well-rounded. Additionally in Matthew 6:34, it advises us to “do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry itself”— reminding us to take life one day at a time.
Seeking Heavenly Wisdom
The bible also teaches us to seek out heavenly wisdom in our decisions and to use this wisdom to guide us in every aspect of our lives. In Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight”. This reminds us that it is important to seek guidance from God when making decisions and to be mindful of our time. Additionally, in Psalm 90:12, it tells us to “teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom”— emphasizing the importance of being mindful and aware of our time, and making the most of it.
Managing our Lives
The bible also advises us to be mindful of how we choose to manage our lives and to be sure that our decisions are based on wisdom and deliberation. In Ephesians 5:15, it says “be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise”. This reminds us to be thoughtful in our actions and to prioritize the things that are most important. Lastly, in Colossians 4:5, it says “be wise in the way you act to outsiders; make the most of every opportunity”— telling us to be efficient and productive, making the most of the time we are given.
Managing our Resources
The bible also encourages us to be mindful of how we manage our resources, and to use them wisely and carefully. In Proverbs 24:27, it says “do not eat the food of a stingy person, do not crave his delicacies”. This teaches us to be aware of how we use the resources we have wisely and not be lured in by desires that may lead us astray. Additionally, in Luke 16:11, it says “if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?”— reminding us that the way we manage our resources will shape the successes and failures of our lives.
Managing our Health
We can also learn lessons from the bible about how to manage our health. In Proverbs 17:22, it says “a cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones”. This teaches us to take care of ourselves, to try and remain positive, and to make sure that our physical, emotional and mental health is being taken care of. Additionally, in 3 John 1:2, it says “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well”— reminding us to take care of our bodies and have a clean mind.
Managing our Relationships
Finally, the bible also offers guidance on how to manage relationships and strengthen our bond with those we care about. In Proverbs 17:17, it says “a friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity”—telling us to nurture our relationships and to be there for our friends and family when they need us. Additionally, in Colossians 3:14, it says “And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony”— emphasizing the importance of love being at the centre of our relationships, and the importance of showing compassion and generosity to those around us.
