Time Management, Jesus’ Way

Beth Beutler

www.bethbeutler.com

Cover Design: Amy Tedder, AT Your Design www.atyourdesign.com

Editing/Proofreading: Raydell Tedder

Please note: This book was originally published in 2005 and has been streamlined in 2012 for use on e-book readers. As a result, some addendum items and the original more extensive acknowledgment page have been removed.

Copyright © 2005, 2012 by Beth Beutler

All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, scanning, or other—except for brief quotations in critical reviews or articles, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Published in Greenville, South Carolina by HOPE Unlimited.

Unless otherwise noted, Scripture quotations are from the One Year Chronological Bible, New Living Translation, Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Wheaton, IL, © Copyright 2000.

Dedication

This book is dedicated to the memory of my father, David LeMay, who went home to spend time with Jesus in July of 1998.  Thanks Daddy,  for your example of helping others and ministering faithfully.  I know you are thrilled to be spending time in Heaven—helping Jesus in the workshop. I hope He lets you  sneak a peek now and then at your daughter and son-in-law who are trying to carry on a legacy of bringing hope to others:  Helping Other People Excel through HOPE Unlimited.

Heavenly Father, this book is a gift of praise to You.  Without You, it would never have been written.  Thank You for your guidance on this journey.

Full acknowledgements are contained in the PDF version of the book.

Author’s note: for purposes of easier reading, male and female pronouns are used individually rather than he/she or s/he.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Lesson 1:  Jettison Worry

Lesson 2:  Jettison Doubt

Lesson 3:  Jettison the Control of Others

Lesson 4:  Jettison Poor Choices

Lesson 5:  Jettison Wasteful Conversation

Lesson 6:  Jettison Difficult Behavior!

Lesson 7:  Enjoy Saving Other People Time

Lesson 8:  Enjoy Time Resting

Lesson 9: Enjoy Time in Hidden Places

Lesson 10:  Enjoy  Relationships

Lesson 11:  Enjoy Focusing on Others

Lesson 12:  Enjoy Time with Children

Lesson 13: Spend Time with Jesus and People

Lesson 14:  Spend Time Developing a Mission Statement

Lesson 15:  Spend  Time Fasting

Lesson 16:  Spend  Time Outdoors

Lesson 17:  Spend Time Affirming Others

Lesson 18:  Spend Time Dealing with Relationship Issues

Lesson 19:  Use Time for Observation and Creativity

Lesson 20:  Use Time to Do What Has to be Done

Lesson 21:  Use Time to Accomplish Tasks

Lesson 22:  Use Time to Minister During Unexpected Opportunities

Lesson 23:  Use Teamwork and Delegation to Save Time

Lesson 24:  Use Some Time to Learn Biblical Stewardship

Lesson 25:  Surrender Your Plans to the Spirit

Lesson 26:  Surrender Temporal Goals in Favor of Eternal Goals

Lesson 27:  Surrender Time to the Wilderness

Lesson 28:  Surrender Time to Interruptions, Part 1

Lesson 29:  Surrender Time to Interruptions, Part 2

Lesson 30:  Surrender Your Life to Jesus

Addendum

Introduction

“Let’s see now…”

“Today, I have that 2:00 staff meeting with the disciples--we must review the steps for casting out demons.  Then, at 4:00 I need to go to the well to counsel Mrs. Married-to-Seven.  Next Tuesday I have a meeting with James and John about that promotion they are asking about and dinner plans with Mary, Martha  and Lazarus.  I could fit in a healing at 10:00 that day. Then…”

Not exactly how we would think Jesus would handle His earthly ministry, is it?  Can you imagine Him whipping out a Psalm Pilot to check His schedule? Perhaps He carried a scroll with His vital appointments and contact information tucked into His copy of the “Seven Habits of Highly Successful Religious Leaders.”  I doubt it.

In our world of time-management experts and gadgets, it’s rare to look at Jesus Christ as the best model for managing time.  Yet, Jesus was so effective in the use of His time His earthly ministry of only 33 years.  He had to have a handle on how to spend time, and He is a wonderful model for us.

Jesus’ model of time management is less a system and more a set of beliefs and attitudes that inspired appropriate action.  To help us remember the JESUS model of time management, we will learn to modify our thinking and take the following actions to:

J – Jettison Time

E – Enjoy Time

S – Spend Time

U – Use Time

S – Surrender Time

Each lesson has 4 elements to help you consider and apply the concepts as you spend TIME with the chapter:

T – Turn to  - Scripture passage to read

I – Investigate – Thoughts on the topic for the day

M – Meditate – a memory verse and questions for reflection and discussion

E – Express – a prayer to start your own conversation with God about the topic.

Space is also provided at the end of each chapter  for you to journal your thoughts and prayers about each topic.

Let’s begin with a prayer…

Jesus, You are the best example of time management ever.  I confess that time management is sometimes a challenge for me.  Help me to follow Your example as I reconsider the mastery of “my” time and instead value it as a tool for getting closer to You, serving others, and bringing God glory.

JETTISON

To throw away…

To get rid of…

Especially to lighten a ship in danger.

Picture yourself on a sailboat that has suddenly entered the path of a storm.  The boat becomes tossed with high waves, and the weight of the ship is causing it to sink quickly.  There is no choice but to lighten the load.  Everyone on board begins to wholeheartedly cast items overboard leaving only the barest of essentials. That is what it means to jettison.

Is your life in the middle of a dangerous storm of wasted time? How can you overcome this? The best way to tackle clutter and baggage in our lives is to first identify, and then jettison, negative waste so there is room for the more important elements.

Use the next several chapters to consider habits that waste time.  Prayerfully consider the example of Jesus who instead, spent time on the essentials.

Lesson 1:  Jettison Worry

Turn to:  Matthew 6:25-34

Investigate

Jesus didn’t waste time worrying.  He had plenty to worry about if He chose to.  It wasn’t a matter of ignoring His challenges.  In fact, He spent a great deal of time praying these things through with His father. He depended on God’s help and grace to see Him through--the very grace that is available to us. He was able to surrender the circumstances of His life with an attitude of "not My will but Thine."  Because of that attitude, His time was spent ministering rather than worrying.

How much time do we waste worrying?  Whenever I hear some unsettling news, I usually go into “worry mode.”  I either obsess over the situation in my mind, talk it over with numerous people, or try to obtain information that will comfort me. This zaps my energy and time and makes me less effective.  Ironically, it also does not help one bit toward solving the problem!  So I’m left with no peace and less time!  I should not be surprised at this, because Jesus taught that worry would not add any time to our days.  (See today’s verse.)

Why is worry such a common sin of mine? Why is worry the “acceptable” sin for Christians? Worry controls me when I have not completely surrendered to God.  It also comes from not feeling truly convinced that God loves me unconditionally or has my best interests in mind and that I am here for the purpose of bringing Him glory, not my own fulfillment.  I try to create an environment in which I feel comfortable or at ease.  I have placed the idol of comfort above the priority of worship and trust.  And in doing so, I waste a lot of time.

This was not Jesus’ approach.  Jesus did not waste His time worrying because He accepted the foundation of His Father’s love.  This doesn’t mean He was always excited about where God’s plans would lead Him. (Remember His agony in the garden.) However, because He trusted God’s love for Him and for the world, He worked through it with His Father, and surrendered to the ultimate plan.  He lived convinced of God’s goodness and love.

Can you imagine Jesus having thoughts like, "Oh, how am I going to heal all these people today?" or "There are so many needs—where do we start?"  No, He was ready for God to prompt Him through the Holy Spirit and ministered with love to those around him.  Although Jesus knew He would face some terrible things, He spent time with His Father rather than obsessing about what was coming.  This ongoing daily communication allowed Him to jettison worry before it became an issue.

Pray first.  Worry never.  Watch your time multiply.

Meditate

“So I tell you, don’t worry about everyday life…can all your worries add a single moment to your life?  Of course not.”  Matthew 6:25a, 27 NLT

1. Do you agree with the statement that worry is a sin?  Why would we consider it an “acceptable” sin for Christians as compared to other sins?

2. Think about a situation that has you worried.  Estimate how much time you have spent in the last week thinking about the situation, researching options, or discussing it with others.  Then, compare how much time you have spent in prayer over the matter.

3. What is the top idol in your life?  What steps can you take to jettison it?

Express

Jesus, help me follow Your pattern of not worrying about whatever is coming next.  I surrender my will for today to Your perfect plan for me.  It scares me to do so, but I trust that You love me completely and have my best interest in mind, and my life in the palm of Your hand.  May I use the time You give me to love and minister rather than strive and worry-- to avoid comforting myself with understanding or knowledge when trust in You is all that is necessary.

Lesson 2:  Jettison Doubt

Turn to: Mark 4:35-41

Investigate

I actually prayed for God to help me turn on the stereo.

I love computers (most of the time.)  I can handle that kind of technology.  But, I am audio/visually challenged.  I let my husband or son do most of the configuring of stereos, DVDs and VCRs.  Once while they were away at a father/son campout, I had one of those rare occasions where I spent the WHOLE day pretty much alone.  It was too quiet, so I wanted to listen to some music.

However, my husband had configured the system to where it required 3-4 steps just to turn it on.

Of course, I couldn’t do it.  Was that button supposed to be on channel one or two?  Do I plug the speakers back in? Are the headphones hooked up thus blocking the sound?

I walked away somewhat frustrated.  Then, I decided, “Why not? I’ll pray.”  I asked God to show me how to remember to do this.  I went back to the unit and slowly did one thing at a time - plugged this in, turned to channel 1, set the CD player, and in that suspension of time before turning it on, I felt as if God was saying, “You don’t really believe the music will come on, do you?”  I guess I didn’t.  But I tried anyway.  When the strains of flute music started flowing, it was one of the most beautiful sounds I’ve ever heard.  Tears started to flow…oh, me of little faith.

Maybe that’s what Christ was talking about those times he said to his closest friends…”How long will you doubt?”  Do you realize how much time Christ would have wasted if he questioned and doubted God’s power on Him and His earthly ministry?  You never see Christ doubting whether God would use him and wasting precious time worrying about it. (See Lesson 1!)  Instead, he spent time discussing things with His Father.  He demonstrated faith.  The time I spent fussing was such a waste!

I remember another time when an individual asked to speak with me some time in the following week.  I sensed it might be a difficult conversation, and I wasn’t thrilled about waiting three days to see how it would go.  However, instead of obsessing over it, I tried to leave the situation to the Lord’s hand. As the time drew closer, others prayed for God’s will in the situation.  Ultimately, the individual cancelled the meeting, and to this day has not asked to see me again.  I don’t believe there are any unresolved issues.  In fact, I don’t even remember much about it now!  I truly think it was God’s intention to stop that conversation from happening.  How glad I am that I did not spend hours obsessing about it!

It’s taking me awhile, but I’m discovering the wisdom of making prayer my first resort, rather than wasting precious time doubting God’s ability to help me in every area of life—even in some small task like turning on a stereo.

Meditate

“And He asked them, ‘Why are you so afraid? Do you still not have faith in me?”  Mark 4:40 NLT

1. Do you believe that God cares about such a little thing as turning on a stereo?  Think of the most recent “small thing” that you tried to handle yourself.  Did you doubt that God cared enough to help you?  What did you do to handle the situation?

2. What nagging doubt are you carrying today?  Take a few moments to write a prayer to God about it.

3. Doubt is defined as an uncertainty or skepticism.  What practical step can you take the next time you feel an uncertainty about God’s ability to work in your life?  How do you think this action will help you spend time more effectively?

Express

Jesus, these examples renew my faith.  I see how You worked and what a waste of time obsessing and fussing would have been.  You really are in complete control.  How long will I doubt You?  Bring to my memory these things the next time I’m tempted to spend time worrying and doubting.

Lesson 3:  Jettison the Control of Others

Turn to: John 2:1-5

Investigate

Now THIS is an interesting look at Jesus’ time management skills.  Here He is at a wedding.  I can picture Him standing around in fellowship, perhaps even with a glass of – gasp! – wine.  His mother comes up to tell Him the wine is running out.  I imagine Mary was about ready to see Jesus display the power she knew He had.  She expected Him to drop everything and fix the problem.  Perhaps there was even a bit of pride involved, something like, “MY son can take care of this!”  What was Jesus’ answer?  He firmly yet affectionately says, “Dear woman, why do you involve me? My time has not yet come.”

With all due respect to Mary, a wonderful person, Jesus did not let her manipulate Him.  Note that He did eventually solve the problem, but He did not react immediately just because His mother ran to Him.  When He took care of the problem, He was aware of a greater purpose and calling. He did not let Mary pressure Him as to when and how it would be done.  We don’t know if there was much of a gap of time between His conversation with her and when He directed the servants to fill the pots with water.  But His answer reminds her not to get worried about problems that were not hers to solve.

This hits me even as I type it.  I’m currently agitated over a situation where, quite frankly, I really don’t have control.  I’ve been frustrated for days about it.  I have thoughts of how to fix it.  I want God to fix it.  I want the individuals involved to open their eyes.  But I see myself running to Jesus saying, “Jesus, look at this problem.  Fix it!” and then His gently telling me, “What concern is that to you?  My time has not yet come.”

To her credit, Mary backed away and handed over the problem.  Oh, she still had confidence that Jesus could, and would, handle it.  Why else would she tell the servants, “Do whatever He tells you.”  But hopefully, she learned a lesson in patience.

Jesus did not look to people as the source of His fulfillment and self esteem.  He risked his mother’s anger to fulfill a higher purpose.   We spend a lot of time trying to please those around us or fulfill their wishes.  I’m sure many of us can list situations where we spent hours doing something we didn’t really want to do but something that was expected of us by a friend or family member.  We often don’t even stop to consider whether God intended for us to take on that project.  We don’t want to risk someone’s anger, so we over-commit and then get frustrated.  What could we do instead?  A simple response would be to say, “I need to get back to you on that.  I’ll give you an answer by _______.”  Then, prayerfully consider the request, discuss it with your immediate family, if appropriate, and be sure to answer the individual by the day you said you would.  Understand that she may not like your answer, but you cannot control her response.  The benefit of this approach is that you slow down long enough to consider how God wants you to spend your time, and others should begin to realize that you do not answer without giving careful thought to requests.  They may end up thinking twice before trying to dump more responsibilities on you!

As we learn to live more confidently in our relationship with Christ, we can surrender the need for the approval of others and the subsequent hours of time we spend in its pursuit.  We will learn it is okay to say “No,” and what a time saver that is.  More on that in another chapter!

Meditate

“Jesus replied,  ‘My time has not yet come.’ “  John 2:4b NLT

Think about a situation in which you feel controlled by someone else.  What history in the relationship may be contributing to your sense of feeling controlled?

2.              Do you think it is wise to establish boundaries with your family members and friends?  What practical steps can you take to begin to instill healthy boundaries?  (You may wish to research other books on the topic.)

3. Discuss or write your feelings about Jesus’ response to His mother.  Did it sound disrespectful?  Was she out of line?

Express

Jesus, I want to please people.  And, I want you to fix this problem!  I see by Your example, though, that the time may not have come yet.  Or, that You are working a higher purpose in my life and in others.  Help me when I feel pressured by those around me.  Give me guidance to spend time as You want me too, rather than just to gain the approval of others.

Lesson 4:  Jettison Poor Choices

Turn to:  Matthew 11:25-30

Investigate

How can a burden be light? In verses 29 and 30 of our reading, we see a promise that at first glance seems contradictory.  Jesus is telling us that the burden He gives us is light.  I don’t know about you, but at times, it surely doesn’t feel light!  These days, we see our schedules filling to the brim, going here, going there, barely able to enjoy any quiet time or solitude.  There seem to be so many demands between home and family responsibilities and career and job requirements, not to mention volunteer and church activities.  Do you feel as if you are carrying a “light” burden?

What did Jesus mean by this?  Notice the earlier part of that sentence.  I love how the New Living Translation puts it.  “My yoke fits perfectly…”  Think of two oxen plowing together.  The farmer is able to harness power with a yoke that fits them well.  To the oxen, the burden put on them does not feel too heavy.  The key is this: the yoke fits.

God designed a yoke specifically for each one of us.  In another chapter, we’ll talk about it in other terms – that of a personal mission, or calling.  You see, when we become familiar with our yoke, it is not a burden.  Rather, it is a tool to guide us and harness God’s power in our lives.  It is important to discover our yoke, then to make time-management choices based on our understanding of that yoke, or calling.

Jesus made wise choices based on His calling. In spite of how much Jesus “got done,” you never hear him complaining that He was “so busy.”  We, on the other hand, frequently make that statement.  “Oh, I am sooo busy!” (Perhaps a bit of “woe is me” elicits sympathy that feels good?)  Rather than complaining, Jesus made choices that helped Him focus energy on His call.  He also had a good sense of where His calling would lead him.  Note that in today’s reading from John, Jesus answered His brothers’ request with wisdom. He knew when to travel and when to stay put because He understood His yoke.  Going ahead of God’s plan would not only be ineffective, it would be a waste of time.  Jesus was not afraid to say “no” even though it made no sense to those around Him.

So how can we make wise choices based on our calling – choices that will use our time most effectively?  Let’s review our practical tip from yesterday, for when you are asked to add something to your schedule:

Don’t say “yes” right away.  We often assent to something immediately because it feels good to please the person making the request.  However, it often leads to much stress for us. Have you ever walked away muttering, “What have I gotten myself into?”

A smarter approach is to say,  “Let me think and pray about that,” then give a time for when you will give an answer, and be sure to follow through.  Say, “Can I let you know by Friday?”  Be reliable and call by Friday with either a “yes” or a “no.”

Prayerfully consider the request in light of your purpose and current situation.  If you decide to say “yes,” plan to attack the challenge with enthusiasm.  If you say “no” walk away without guilt. Answer either, “Yes, I believe this project will be a fit right now.  What’s next?” or “Thank you very much for thinking of me, but after prayerfully considering it, I believe it is not a fit for what God wants me to focus on right now.”  (Be careful not to leave the door open with “maybe some other time.”  Don’t lead people on.  If you are truly interested in the opportunity later, you can always volunteer!)

After teaching this material at a seminar in Seattle, I had a student tell me “I think you have given me a way to say ‘no.’  She began to understand the freedom of choice that knowing her calling -- or yoke -- could provide.

Beth Moore expressed this so well at a Living Proof Women’s Conference I attended.  She shared a thought of God talking with us and saying,  “I’m sorry you are so tired and stressed out.  It’s not my fault!”

Remember, your yoke is easy.  Your burden is light.  He said so.

Meditate

Matthew 11:28-30:  Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you.  Let me teach  you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NLT

1. How do you feel about the idea that our “yoke” can be easy?  Is that realistic?

2. Reflect on a time you added too much to your schedule because you didn’t consider your yoke, or calling.  What happened?  How did that season feel?

3. Write two or three responses you could give to a person asking you to take on a project.   Commit to using this response the next time you encounter such a situation.

Express

Jesus, help me remember that the yoke You designed for me is a perfect fit.  When I take on additional weight, it is often without Your approval.  Slow me down so the decisions I make fit with Your yoke for me.  Help me respond to requests in a wise, discerning way so that I can experience the ease of following Your call on my life.

Lesson 5:  Jettison Wasteful Conversation

Turn to:  John 4:1-31

Investigate

Conversations and time management. What do they have to do with each other? Far more than you think.    The Bible refers to our tongue being as powerful as the rudder of a ship.  What we say can change the direction of a situation.  Too much talking can lead to trouble – trouble that often takes a LONG time to resolve.

Think about this.  Of the problems in your life, how many have to do with relationships?  And, of those problems, can you trace that what someone said, or did not say, caused or compounded the problem.  How much time have you spent thinking about this issue, talking it over with others, and stewing?  I’d venture to guess that many reading this have used up a lot of time and energy processing through relationship problems that could have been avoided if you (yes, you) or the other person had had the wisdom to either say something you should have said or avoided saying something you didn’t need to.

For example, say you tell three friends about a difficult problem.  There's nothing inherently wrong, of course, in confiding in a trusted mentor and praying through a situation, but our tendency is to be less than discreet as we process things verbally.  We've taken the time of three or four people, and then, when the situation resolves itself, (as it often does) we forget to go back to those people and update them on the outcome. At that point, these folks have formed opinions and may have spent much of their time dwelling on the situation themselves.  That’s wasted time, multiplied!

Jesus did not feel the need to tell everyone everything or process his troubles regularly with others.  He didn’t take an inordinate amount of time to draw attention to Himself.  Note how in our reading and verses today, He only briefly stated his feelings or needs. (Additionally, he asked for help, giving the people opportunity for obedience.)  Some of us would have said to the Samaritan woman, “Please give me a drink.  I am hot and exhausted.  It’s a long way to Galilee from Judea.  Traffic was terrible!  Could you put some ice in that?  Whew, I’m beat.”  Jesus simply said, “Please give me a drink.”  Or, we would have told our friends all about our anguish, in vivid detail.  We’d spend more time griping than praying.  He simply asked His friends to simply “be” with him.  Maybe we talk too much.

Most of the time Jesus spent talking was for the purpose of teaching and influencing others.   He used His talking time wisely, drawing attention to the Father and not himself. He saved his speaking time and energy for unselfish reaching out to others.  In so doing, He respected their time too.  He didn’t waste their time with unnecessary whining or gossip.  He knew that the few minutes he had with them needed to be focused on matters of highest importance.

Use your “conversations” to positively impact others – don’t waste their time.

Meditate

“He told them, ‘My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death.  Stay here and watch with me.’ “  Mark 14:34 NLT

1. In the last week, how many conversations have you had that you would admit were wasteful?  Why?

2. When you are involved in a conversation, do you often think about your own response or feelings instead of listening deeply?

3. If you tend to process ideas verbally, what can you do to protect yourself from wasteful, unhealthy conversations in the name of working through something?

Express

Jesus, this is convicting.  I like conversations to be about me.  I want people to encourage me, praise me, listen to my problems, and sympathize. Now I realize that You set an example here.  You didn’t waste time talking about Your own troubles, or gossiping about the troubles of others.  You saved time and “talking energy” for what was truly important.  Shift my perspective Lord, and help me save myself, and others, from wasted time.

Lesson 6:  Jettison Difficult Behavior!

Turn to: Matthew 5:9, 21-26

Investigate

How would people describe you?  If I took a secret poll, would anyone admit you are a  “difficult” person?  A difficult person is one who is self-centered, requires high-maintenance, or a whines.  This type of behavior causes a huge waste of time, both for the individual and those around him or her.  Why? Because difficult behavior is a magnet for time-wasting relationship problems.  Have you ever had to play the role of mediator between difficult people?  I have.  It can take a lot of time and energy, and the need for mediation is often caused by individuals being difficult, or ornery, with one another.

Folks, we don’t have time to be difficult!  Take an honest look at yourself.  Does your behavior or personality traits make it difficult for people to work or live with you?  We all have unique personalities for a purpose.  Yet sometimes we allow them to be an excuse for poor behavior.  How much time is spent rebuilding bridges damaged by ornery behavior—time that could have been better spent in sharing the gospel or ministering in other ways?

Jesus pointed out that God blesses those who work for peace.  The word “work” is interesting.  It reminds us that peace doesn’t always come easily.  In John 17:21, Jesus prayed, “My prayer for all of them is that they will be one…”  Oneness involves putting our own interests aside and lifting others up.  It involves taking an extra moment to be thoughtful.  It involves taking the hard step of confronting a brother or sister in Christ when they are headed down an unhealthy road.

Conflict is inevitable, but many times conflict can be avoided.  Let’s face it, many of our people problems come from selfish behavior.  Oh, how much time is spent trying to fix these issues.  I know…I’ve been there.  I’ve watched situations take hours, days, weeks, with no foreseeable resolution.  I’ve wasted time wondering if someone is mad at me.  I’ve wasted time dwelling on situations over and over again.  I’ve wasted my time and that of others by talking over, or even gossiping, about a situation.  (Do I ever think about how I might have contributed to those situations? Do I ever accept that--gasp!--I may actually have had some responsibility for causing the problem!?)

Perhaps Jesus prayed for unity because He knows how much kingdom work is lost when a bunch of difficult Christians get together.  Don’t fall into the trap of selfish attitudes.  It will waste of your time and that of others, and be a reason for Satan’s celebration.  Handle conflicts quickly, and efficiently, according to biblical principles of dealing directly with the person involved.  Avoid unnecessary conflict by not taking offense so easily.  Demonstrate some of the grace that’s been demonstrated to you.  Not only will you have a more peaceful life, you’ll discover some extra time on your hands!

Meditate

“God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.”  Matthew 5:9 NLT

1. Describe how a difficult person behaves.  Do you agree that time-wasting situations seem to gravitate toward that behavior?

2. What tendencies in yourself can cause difficulty for others?

3. What steps can you take to turn difficult tendencies into God-honoring, time-saving traits?

Express

Jesus, I don’t think about how much time is spent dealing with conflict.  And even more so, I don’t want to admit when I’ve been the cause of it.  Help me regularly examine myself and put aside my selfish desires or hurt feelings so I can contribute to the greater goal of advancing your kingdom. Help me to be patient with those who irritate me!

ENJOY

To have or experience with joy…

To get pleasure from…

Is it possible that we are supposed to enjoy the time we spend on earth?  I think so.  Jesus was a joyful person.  I picture Him as often smiling,  laughing, and interacting with joy and kindness with those around Him.  Let’s take a look at how He enjoyed time.

Lesson 7:  Enjoy Saving Other People Time

Turn to: John 13:1-16

Investigate

Jesus washed His disciples’ feet.  In a later chapter, we will take a deeper look at this action.  In the meantime,  I'd like to offer an observation of the experience that isn’t like our typical interpretation.  In the process of washing feet, Jesus saved someone else’s time.

I wonder who the job of washing feet normally fell to? Did it belong to some servant or child? It appears from Luke 7:44 that the host would normally be responsible to see that water was brought to wash one’s feet. If so, when Jesus took that responsibility over for a bit, He freed that unknown person for something else.  I like to imagine that maybe that person was in the middle of something critical in his life, and in doing that task, Jesus kept from interrupting him.  We aren’t told the details, but because we know Christ’s character, it would not be unusual for Him to be so considerate of someone else as to take on a menial task Himself.

This attitude goes against the typical time management advice, which is to delegate tasks to others so you can handle the things you are uniquely qualified to do.  There are appropriate times to delegate—Jesus did so.  But, there are also appropriate times to take on a task for someone else, laying down our interests, and better yet, our pride, to either help or actually save the individual time.

How about you?  Have you ever had someone take care of something that is normally your responsibility?  What a blessing.  One of the things that most impresses me about coworkers or friends is when they are willing to do “whatever” in an attitude of helping someone else.  I’ve been the recipient of that kindness more than once.

I remember one particular incident when I was working in our church office. Someone had made a request to use the church, and the staff decided it was best to tell them “no.”  Since I’d been the first one to talk with the caller, it could have easily fallen to me to have to call them back.  However, our teaching pastor offered to respond because he was better acquainted with the gentleman. This not only eased my load, but it saved me from a potentially awkward conversation. It took only a few minutes of his time, but his help meant something to me as a coworker on the team.

Sometimes at work, there might be a heavy box needing to be carried or some newsletters that need stuffing, and someone will step in even if it’s not in their job description.  How often do I do that for someone else?  How often am I so caught up in what I have to get done that I fail to realize how I could ease someone else’s burden by doing just a small task for them?

Perhaps that is part of the reason Jesus said “Take My yoke upon you.  Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matthew 11:39-30 NLT)  I don’t think He meant that all of life with Him would be easy, because He does call it a burden. But He is always there to help carry the load, and brothers and sisters in Christ should help to bear one another’s burdens.  “Light” doesn’t sound like drudgery!   I think we can enjoy giving that time as much as being on the receiving end.  Jesus’ time spent washing feet was a humble expression of being ready to ease someone else’s load.  He said it was the “path of blessing.” He saved someone else’s time, and I’ll bet He enjoyed it, too!

Meditate

“Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, ‘Look at this woman kneeling here.  When I entered your home, you didn't offer me water to wash the dust from my feet, but she has washed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair.’ ”  Luke 7:44 NLT

1. Why do you think Simon may have failed to provide water for the visitor’s feet?  How do you think he felt when Jesus praised the woman for her actions?

2. What menial task have you left to someone else, when you know you could have taken care of it yourself?

3. How does the conventional wisdom of delegation and doing what you are uniquely qualified to do compare with the willingness to do menial tasks?   Is there a way to balance those two concepts?

Express

Jesus, often I am afraid to help someone else because it will rob me of time to get things done.  Help me remember that we are here on earth to serve others and to be sensitive to opportunities to show love by saving someone a bit of time.

Lesson 8:  Enjoy Time Resting

Turn to:  Mark 4:35-41

Investigate

We’re camping, and it's been raining all morning.  I'm really glad we have an RV at times like this.  Of course, it would be nice if the rain would let up so we could get some time outside, although this isn't stopping my son and his friend from playing out there.  They are throwing rocks into the lake, not letting the rain stop their fun.  I wonder what Jesus did during storms? In at least one case, He rested.  In fact, He was sound asleep!

Can you just see it?  Here is a boat getting tossed about in a major storm, and Jesus is snoozing at the back of the boat.  The disciples were going crazy around him, and He had his head on a cushion, resting.

I doubt we think much about Christ needing sleep.  However, because He was God and man, He understood what it was like to be tired.  He experienced the same temptations and distractions we do.

So much can go wrong when we are overtired.  Sleep-deprivation is becoming a major problem in our world.  It contributes to health and emotional problems, anger, and lack of productivity.  We’ve gotten to the point that we don’t feel valuable unless we are busy.  We think it’s a waste of time to sleep or take a nap.  We worry about being lazy, but a balanced perspective about sleep is important to our well-being and effectiveness.  After all, if Jesus had to sleep, why should we feel guilty about it?

We see that Jesus was asleep in the midst of a storm.  The storm is described as “fierce,” with “waves breaking into the boat.” NLT  This was no small stirring of the water.  It is very frightening to be on a lake or ocean when a major storm arises.  Jesus must have been sleeping deeply, for the disciples woke him “frantically.”  Jesus’ deep sleep shows me His true surrender to God.  Even in the midst of upheaval, He could rest deeply.

I wonder if we'd ever think about "resting" during the storms of life.  More than likely, we're out there "doing" something -- trying to solve the problem, figuring out who or what is at fault, coming up with "plan B" -- anything besides resting.

Jesus made do with what He had around him.  He simply went to the back of the boat, found something to put his head on, and went to sleep.  There was no elaborate requirement to have a fancy bed or room.  In another part of the gospel He mentioned that He didn’t have a permanent place to “lay His head.” (Matthew 8:20) He was an itinerant sleeper!  Again, this shows faith in God.  So many of us, especially ladies, find it very important to spend time preparing our nest.  We feel uncomfortable out of our normal surroundings.  However, Jesus slept in a variety of places as He traveled around.  His settled-ness came not from His environment, but from His internal relationship with God and the plan he was following.

How’s your life in comparison?  Are you truly able to deeply rest?  Or does life and your environment have to be “just-so” for you to rest comfortably?  Try spending some time resting emotionally in God, even in the midst of your storm of a schedule, or less-than-ideal environment.  Make time to enjoy a regular Sabbath…a regular period of resting.  The most powerful person in the world needed to rest.  God Himself chose to rest on the seventh day.  Since God and Jesus spent time resting, we should do no less.

Perhaps the rain in life is to give us a forced break -- today especially, which happens to be my husband's birthday, we are being "forced" into doing very little.  Relaxing, cuddling, reading, writing.  Actually, it's been pretty nice.  Guess I don't mind the rain after all.

Mediate

“Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made to benefit people, and not people to benefit the Sabbath.”  Mark 2:27

1. What do you do when a storm arises, literally or figuratively?

2. Think about a time when you have truly rested in the Lord during a storm.  What steps can you take to make that response the norm rather than the exception?

3. Do you think the disciples should have been less frantic?  How would you have responded?

Express

Jesus, help me to learn to truly rest, both physically and emotionally.  I relinquish my need to control my environment so much that I can’t rest easy until everything or everything is “just so.”  You rested deeply in the middle of chaos.  Let that sleep and rest refresh me, too, so that I can serve You even more effectively.

Lesson 9: Enjoy Time in Hidden Places

Turn to:  Mark 1:35-39

Investigate

Jesus went off by Himself quite frequently. In the gospels, there are numerous references to Jesus departing to a quiet location. More than once, the gospel writers mention that Jesus went out early in the morning.  He made a habit of this, not feeling the need to always be busy or accessible to those around us.  That’s different from how we behave, isn’t it?

I remember one holiday season.  One particular day I was feeling stressed.  A lot of trivial things crowded my mind, and I was at a physical low.  I needed some time alone.  I worked at a ministry where space is at a premium and I didn't want to stay in my office, for people could find me there.  It was also raining hard, so I could not go outside for any length of time.

One of the maintenance men reminded me of an area of the building that I could (safely!) climb up to and where no one would think to find me.  I was grateful for this as it gave me an escape without having to travel far!  It occurred to me that Jesus found high places for Himself on a regular basis.  Part of the reason I was feeling stressed was that in the midst of other pressures,  I had given up time alone.  I didn't realize how important it was to protect that “alone time.”  I had given up time with God -- time to just let Him inspire, lead, guide me in a place to listen and unwind--a secret place.

It appears that Jesus enjoyed natural settings, perhaps because He knew the Creator intimately. Outdoor, natural settings are great for making connections with the Lord.  There’s something about being surrounded by His creation that draws us closer to experiencing the reality of Him.  That’s not to say that a favorite chair or room won’t work.  However, you may notice that getting away from the places where you spend the most time will widen your perspective and allow you to listen.  Perhaps that is why Jesus chose places like that.

Ironically, in a secluded place, you can also talk more freely.  Who of us has not spoken out loud or sung with abandonment when we are convinced that no one is around to listen?  (Maybe in the shower?) I think God delights in that fresh exchange of thoughts and conversation.  A physical location that you can identify as your “hidden place” can become a retreat for this intimacy.  It does not have to be fancy, but give some thought to finding a secret place where you can go regularly. Enjoy the beauty of the place, and more importantly, the precious time with God that it represents.

Do you have a hidden place? Do you carve out time, perhaps early mornings like Jesus did, to go there? It may take some work to make it happen.  You may have to carve time out of your schedule and space out of your home or yard.  Once it’s done,  don't spoil it by talking about it with a lot of people—that will ruin the secret! Follow Jesus’ example and get away on your own to recharge. It’s a vital important element of wise time management.

Meditate

“Early the next morning, Jesus went out into the wilderness.”  Luke 4:42a NLT

1. Do you have a secluded place to enjoy time with the Lord?  If not, why not?  What can you do to change that?

2. Why do you think that one of the first things we tend to let go of when we are busy is quiet time?  Is it important to start our day quietly with Him?

3. Use your imagination and picture Jesus going to a quiet, natural surrounding.  What does it look like?  What elements of creation most relax and inspire you?  Make a plan to get to one of those places soon!

Express

Jesus, You speak to us in a “still, small voice” – a voice that is difficult to hear in the midst of chaos.  Help me to find the hidden place where You’d love to spend more time with me.  Help me follow Your example to get apart away from the crowd and not feel guilty about it.

Lesson 10:  Enjoy  Relationships

Turn to: Mark 14:32-41

Investigate

“This is the house that Jesus built.”  Jesus enjoyed relationships at several different levels. Let’s think of them with the word picture of a house. In the innermost “living room” were Peter, James and John.  These three friends accompanied Jesus at his most troubling or meaningful times, and even when they weren’t the most faithful (see today’s reading) they were essentially His “inner circle.”

The kitchen of this house could represent the group of all twelve disciples.  Jesus “did life” with all of them.  In the yard are other followers, and the seventy-two Jesus sent out to prepare for his upcoming arrival in the towns where He would stop.  In the town around the home, were other relatives and the masses who followed his teaching.

What’s the point here?  Notice that Jesus spent his most focused time with the chosen few.  This doesn’t mean that He was unfriendly to others.  However, his greatest amount of time was spent with only twelve, and especially three, others.  These men weren’t perfect companions.  One of denied him temporarily.  One betrayed him permanently.  Yet Jesus focused much of His energy and time on them.

Sometimes, in our social life, we accept invitations or try to get “in” with particular people for the wrong reasons.  It doesn’t occur to us that God has a plan for the friends and associates we should have.  This doesn’t mean we are unkind to others or even act with an exclusive attitude.  However, we often fill our schedules with all kinds of social activities that don’t really contribute to our growth or the growth of those around us.  We are often discontent with where relationships are going because we want to be loved by, seen with, or around only certain people.

So what does this tell us about time management?  In lesson 4, we talked about jettisoning poor choices. Are any of the following choices true for you?

1) I always say “yes” to anyone who asks anything of me because I don’t want to hurt someone’s feelings.

2) I drop everything when a family member “needs” something, and often feel manipulated by my relatives.

3) I never associate with anyone (i.e., a “Judas”) who can’t help me or further my cause.

4) I am very popular, or want to be.  I join lots of groups or volunteer efforts, trying to be involved in lots of good things.  Sometimes I feel that I am spread too thin.

See yourself in any of those situations?  How can we combat these time wasters using Jesus’ example?

Jesus said, “Let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ and your ‘no’ be ‘no.’ ” (Matthew 5:37 NIV)  Give a solid answer when you accept or decline an offer, making decisions based on your calling, not on what others want of us.

Love relatives deeply, but do not let them determine how you spend your time (Remember Mary at the wedding feast at Cana and Jesus’ firm answer to her?)

Be willing to share life with someone who may be different from you, investing in that person even if it doesn’t seem to turn out for your benefit.  (This is different than regularly associating with someone who brings you down.  Use wisdom.)

Limit the circle of people in whom you invest a large amount of time, knowing you cannot emotionally or physically handle a deep investment in many people at once.  Choose closest friends wisely.

Make your associates a matter of prayer. Enjoy time with people you feel God has brought into your life to sharpen you. Be open to becoming close with people you may not have originally selected as potential close friends.  Being friendly and kind doesn’t mean you have to accept every invitation, join every group or appear at every event.  Become more intentional about who you spend your hours with—like Jesus did.

Meditate

“Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,” or “No, I won’t.’  Your word is enough.  To strengthen your promise with a vow shows that something is wrong.”  Matthew 5:37 NLT

1. Draw a “house” in the space that follows.  Which of your relationships fit in the living room?  The kitchen? The yard? The neighborhood?  Do you think analyzing your relationships is an effective element of time management?

2. Do your closest acquaintances inspire you to grow in your relationship with Christ?

3. Which person in your life is someone you would not have originally chosen to become connected with?  Is this a healthy relationship?  Why or why not?

Express

Jesus, what makes me think I can spread myself so thin and be effective?  Help me to always demonstrate kindness and love, yet be realistic about how many deep relationships I can truly handle well.  Lead me to those You want me to invest in, even if they are not in the crowd I might have chosen.  Help me to enjoy and wisely consider all my relationships.

Lesson 11:  Enjoy Focusing on Others

Turn to:  John 4:4-26

Investigate

Jesus strikes me as a man who was fully in the moment.  He paid close attention to what was going on around Him, and gave His full attention to the person He was with.  (My husband mentioned that Jesus must have put His all into every moment, which would account for why He needed regular breaks!)  As I think about that aspect of how Christ spent His time, I wonder if I follow His example.

How nice it is when someone gives you her full attention.  I don’t know about you, but one of my pet peeves, in myself and others, is when we play social “pinball,” bouncing from one person to the next without really having any meaningful interaction.  Have you ever had someone be in the middle of a conversation with you then catch sight of someone else going by whom she just “has” to say hello to?  Rather than perhaps discreetly nodding or waving to the other person while still focusing on conversation with you, they bounce over to talk with them.  She may never get back to you as she ricochets through the whole group!  I suppose some people would think that they are just being friendly, but I’ve done it and experienced it, and it’s just  plain rude to treat others that way.  No one gets any meaningful time with you when that happens.

I doubt that Christ was a “pinball” person.  I believe that He put His full focus on those He ministered to, yet without making them feel He was keeping them at arm’s distance.  Can you just see His eyes drilling into the eyes of the woman at the well? Although we’ve looked at this story in another chapter, let's focus on some elements of this conversation.

Jesus was alone when the woman approached.  However, rather than reacting, He simply asked her for a drink, which started the conversation.  This was unusual, based on the woman's reaction.  She asked why a Jew would be asking a Samaritan for a drink.

Jesus continued to engage her in conversation.  They spoke of meaningful things.  This was not simple chit chat.  He shared her need of a Savior and forgiveness and discussed matters of depth.  Just as Jesus revealed His identity to her, the disciples arrived and were astonished to see Him spending time this way.

The woman then left to tell others about Him.  How refreshing to see how Jesus showed respect by having an unconventional conversation, completely focused on the woman, and not apologizing for it when His closest friends arrived.  I think He enjoyed the conversation.  She certainly was excited about it!

I want to be more like that.  I want to enjoy focused, quality time with those around me.  There is a balance to achieve so that I don't appear unfriendly to others.  However, those I am with at the moment should feel that I value their time and that they are important. I should enjoy them, like Jesus did.

Meditate

“Then Jesus told her, ‘I am the Messiah!’  Just then, his disciples arrived.  They were astonished to find him talking to a woman, but none of them asked him why he was doing it or what they had been discussing."  John 4:26-27 NLT

1. Are there people around you who behave like “pin balls,” bouncing from one person to the next without having meaningful conversation?  How does that make you feel?  Be honest, do you tend to behave like that?

2.  Think of someone with whom you would like to enjoy a focused conversation.  Take a step today to make arrangements to do that.

3.  Do you think Jesus was out of line in having a focused conversation with a woman He would not be expected to talk to?  Why were the disciples astonished?

Express

Jesus, help me on this one.  I can be a “pinball” person--often.  I'm sure there are times someone in my family or a person whose path I've crossed felt that my attention was not fully there.  I’m sure I’ve also missed opportunities to enjoy someone out of my normal realm of fellowship. Help me follow Your example.  You cared enough to enjoy quality time with the woman at the well, and it was time that changed her life.

Lesson 12:  Enjoy Time with Children

Turn to: Mark 10:13-16

Investigate

Can't you just see it?  Jesus with a crowd around Him, some prodding their children to go up to receive a blessing.  It’s almost like taking a child to see Santa Claus at the mall. "Go on, honey!"  I imagine some kids bravely approaching, and others hanging back a little, not quite sure what to do.  I would not be surprised if most of the children ran right up to Jesus. I picture Him squatting down to their level affectionately patting them on the back and looking into their eyes. I can see Him tousling their hair, laughing at their antics.

The disciples felt Jesus had better things to do with His time than play with kids but Jesus set them straight!  They scolded the kids, and He scolded them!  Jesus pointed out that children are important in the Kingdom of God, (see Psalm 8:2) and that we should approach Him the same way a child does. He taught that people should become "like children" (Matthew 18:3) and warned that anyone who causes children to stumble would be severely punished. (Matthew 18:2)  He taught that those who accept a child in His name accept Him (Mark 9:37.)  And isn't it interesting that God chose to send Jesus to earth as a child, and had Him go through a normal growth process before starting His official ministry 30 years later?  Perhaps God wanted Jesus to experience all the joy and pain of growing up, so He could have a tender heart and understanding for young people.

Children seem to know by instinct those who love them and can pick out people who love kids.  A child looks up to, and places trust in, the adults around him.  He believes they will take care of him.  Jesus wants us to approach him like a child would, with hands raised, looking at God as "Abba Father " or "Daddy" coupled with the respect of Him as Savior and Lord.

Jesus also blessed the children.  Blessings were vitally important in the day Jesus lived—in fact, they are today.  For Him to take time to bless the children meant He concentrated on their uniqueness and poured out great love and support.  He didn't look at them as a nuisance that should be scurried out of the way.  Children were a vital part of His congregation.

Do you spend any time with children?  If you have your own, you have a built in opportunity to learn, except that we often are distracted the most from those nearest to us.  I have been guilty of that. As my son grows, I am seeing a wonderful person develop, but  I realize I lost some valuable, attentive time with him when my task list took priority.

As time goes on, I realize that I can learn a lot from him, his approach to life, his love of God and willingness to be obedient, and even the struggles he goes through.  He is the church - the Kingdom of God - now and for the future.  I will do well to follow Christ’s example and embrace time with him as well as take time to enjoy and shower love on other children who cross my path.  Children were not an interruption to Jesus – Jesus made time for them and enjoyed them.  Go enjoy some children today!

Meditate

“He said to them ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’ ”  Mark 10:14 NLT

Write the names of two children in your life.  Make arrangements to spend some time with them soon, and pray for them regularly.

When you are around children, how do you feel?  Energized? Drained? Annoyed? Entertained?

3.  Imagine watching Jesus interact with and blessing the children.  What might He say to them?  Now picture Him saying the same thing to you, His precious child.

Express

Jesus, help me today not to overlook the children in my life, be they my own or those who cross my path.  May I approach You with the faith and innocence of a child.  Help me make time to observe, learn from, and enjoy children as You did.

Spend

To give or devote time, labor, thought, or effort to some enterprise or for some purpose…

Time is an asset.  We use it either for positive or negative purposes, and once it is gone, it cannot be redeemed.  When spent wisely, the positive effects can last for years to come. Let’s take a look at how Jesus spent this valuable asset.

Lesson 13: Spend Time with Jesus and People

Turn to:  Mark 1:14-20

Investigate

Relationships or accomplishments.  Which are more important to Jesus? I think you know. It was far more important to Jesus that people experience a personal relationship with God and let that infiltrate their lives and behavior so that God would receive great glory. He encouraged people to put aside their current routines and lifestyles and follow Him, even if it meant sacrificing comfort, familiarity or income.  Think of Simon and Andrew.  When Jesus first saw them, they were fishing.  He told them to follow Him, and they dropped their nets and immediately made time for Him. That took more faith than we realize. How easily could you walk away from your daily responsibilities?

I think Jesus may ask me to follow Him by surrendering my calendar and “To Do” list. Oh, I’m not saying He would want me to throw them out.  However, He’d want my attitude to be about serving Him and others, rather than getting through my list. I’m pretty list-driven, and it is a step of faith for me to let go of the accomplishments and concentrate on relationships.  I’m afraid I’m not really good at that.  Even when I talk things over with my husband, I seem to have a mental checklist of everything I want to tell him!  I tend to value myself by what I DO, or better yet, get DONE!  In reality, my value comes from who I am, in Christ.  Come to think of it, maybe that’s one reason God calls himself the “I AM” not the “I DO.”

Do you want to know yourself a little better?  Take a look back over your calendar in the past few weeks and see how you have occupied your time.  What you value most will begin to show itself.  Have you made time to enjoy Jesus or something you know He has called you to do?  Have you slowed down enough to enjoy appointments with Him?  To enjoy His creation, listen to the Spirit, fellowship with a friend?  To serve Him in the capacity to which He has called you?

We will spend time on what is important to us.  While working on this book, my husband and I became coordinators for a Financial Peace University ministry at our church.  For years, we had guarded our time.  Our Sundays were not very busy, we went out of town approximately once per month, and we had plans at the most one, or possibly, two evenings a week.  During the first semester we did this ministry, we had responsibilities Sunday morning and Sunday night, and previewed material one night per week.  We came home early from a couple of trips so we wouldn’t miss Sunday’s session.  We essentially added about  6-8 hours of responsibility to our week—almost another work day.  Yet, we had the energy to do it.  It was something we placed value on and felt God led us to do, and it was a vital part of our relationship of obedience to God.   It became an important passion, especially for my husband, and we made time for it.  We enjoyed it, and in more ways than one, it became a great blessing to our family.  We made sacrifices to do it, just like Simon and Andrew did, but there was great joy in it. It was a way to enjoy Jesus and other people.

Jesus simply spent time doing what He valued most – bringing people to abundant life.  He focused more on building relationships and teaching people than checking off a list. He ended up accomplishing a lot of “things,” but a checklist or planner is not what drove Him. How about you?

Meditate

“Jesus called out to them, ‘Come, be my disciples, and I will show you how to fish for people!’  And they left their nets at once and went with Him.”  Mark 1:16b NLT

1. Do you use a calendar, planner, or lists?  Do you feel these tools help you serve Jesus better?

2. What do you think it means to enjoy Jesus?

3. Do you enjoy being around people?  Some personalities enjoy people more than tasks.  Others enjoy tasks more than people.  Consider your own personality.  Where does relating with people fit?  How can your personality type respond to Jesus’ obvious focus on people?

Express

Jesus, this is another tough one for me.  I sure like those lists and sometimes “enjoy Jesus” or “serve others” doesn’t fit neatly on it.  In fact, finishing this chapter is yet another item to cross off the list!  I know You probably don’t mind my having a plan, and even making goals.  Just help me keep them in the right perspective, and never think that getting something done is as important as enjoying You and the people You bring my way.

Lesson 14:  Spend Time Developing a Mission Statement

Turn to:  John 10:7-11

Investigate

Did Jesus have a mission statement? I believe He did.  In John 10:10, we see Jesus stating that, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Several other places in the gospels provide insight into Christ’s call.  What He said and what He spent time doing showed a focus on providing life (abundant and eternal), preaching, and teaching.  There were many other things Christ could have done.  Perhaps He could have stayed on earth for 30 more year, healed millions more, and traveled even farther. However, He knew what unique purpose He was designed to fill.  I love John 10:10 because it is a succinct, yet fully meaningful purpose statement.  All of the things Jesus spent time doing fit into the purpose of providing for abundant life, both here on earth and eternally.

Few people take the time to develop a personal mission statement.  We often float through life, spending time on demands that may not really fit any important purpose or unique mission. A mission statement is not something you can write in an hour.  Rather, it is an ongoing exercise as your relationship with God grows and He reveals more truths to you about yourself, your experiences, and even your location.

There are many materials that can help you engage in the process of developing a personal mission statement.  Books such as The Path by Laurie Beth Jones, The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren or Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God by Henry T. Blackaby and Claude V. King provide steps and help you become more attentive to what God’s call may be on your life.  Most importantly, spending time in prayerful listening to God, watching how He is working in your life, and understanding your gifts and passions are all actions that can contribute toward your personal understanding of your mission for Him. Take some time to journal your thoughts about the following:

What am I good at?

What am I passionate about?

When do I feel most energized, even if I’m busy?

What gifts have others affirmed in me?

Where am I located, and what positive, eternal effect can I have on those around me?

How do I see God working in my location?

Developing a mission statement will help you choose between the good and the best ways to spend your time.  A mission statement is like a strainer.  If you pour a container of water and stones through a strainer, only the stones will remain.  A mission statement works the same way.  If you pour your choices and opportunities through the grid of a mission statement, it can help you determine which are vital and which should let go of. There are many decent and valuable ways to spend time. However,  when you are aware of your unique responsibilities before God, it then becomes easier to say “no” if the opportunity doesn’t fit your unique mission.

Let me give you an example.  At this point in our life, we have been called to lead a financial ministry, more details of which are in another chapter.  Prior to this,  I had developed a mission statement for myself that involved using creative communication and leadership to help others. (Note that it was general enough to allow flexibility—I didn’t make a mission statement limiting me to conducting financial ministries.) I am able use both in conducting this class.  In addition, our personal experiences with financial difficulties uniquely equip us to care for others in similar situations.  So, this ministry is a fit for my mission at this time.  I also have other interests.  For example, I have dabbled in music from time to time.  I play the flute, like to sing, and plunk around on the piano.  I have been involved in choirs and orchestras several times, as well as dramatic arts.  In this season, however, I can tell that my creativity needs to be focused on the financial ministry, so have chosen not to be in the choir.  Is choir a bad thing?  No way.  There may come a season when I believe it is time to participate again.  However, for right now, the best fit is the Financial Peace Ministry.   I could have over-extended myself by being involved with both, but in this way, I am fulfilling my purpose without exhaustion!

Jesus had a mission statement.  Maybe it’s time for you to think about yours.

Meditate

“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”  John 10:10b  NLT

1. Do you have a personal mission statement?  If not, why not?

2. Do you agree that a mission statement is important?  How could having one help you with your time management issues?

3.  How does having and following a mission statement balance with a willingness to occasionally serve in areas that may not be an exact fit for you?

Express

Jesus, I am created to fill a special role in Your kingdom.  You designed me with special gifts, experiences, and a personality to worship You and minister to others.  Help me in this process of developing my mission statement and then finding ways of fulfilling it. Above all, help me not to neglect my relationship with You – the foundation of any mission statement.

Lesson 15:  Spend  Time Fasting

Turn to:  Matthew 6:16-18

Investigate

Life on the fast track.  That’s not the type of  “fast” we are talking about today!  So many of us are on a fast track every day - go here, go there, get this, see them, check that off the list, collapse.  Jesus had a bit to say about the word “fast” but it wasn’t in regard to our pace.

Jesus spoke to His followers about fasting as if it were an understood, common practice, like we talk about eating. Notice He said, “And WHEN you fast…” not, “IF you fast.”  That leads me to believe that these folks made a habit of fasting, and Jesus helped them understand that the proper attitude can make fasting a valuable discipline.  He especially stressed that it should be done in secret.

I doubt whether many of us make a practice of fasting.  We may be afraid of feeling hungry so we don’t skip meals.  If we do fast, we may be tempted to tell someone about it.  But private fasting, the kind Jesus recommended, can take various forms beyond skipping meals.  The idea of a fast is to refrain from doing something so we can give some undivided attention to worship.  There may be habits, even good, harmless ones, in your life that take a few minutes or more each day.  It is possible that God may want you to occasionally fast from those activities to “trade the time” for more periods of worship and reflection?

Here’s an example.  Perhaps you are accustomed to sitting down with a cup of coffee and reading the paper for 15 minutes each day.  This is not a sinful or wasteful act.  However, you are finding it difficult to establish a regular quiet time.  Could you fast from the newspaper (and even the coffee) for one day per week and spend that time just thinking, reflecting, and resting in the Lord?

How about taking a technology fast?  We are bombarded by e-mail and information every day.  I check e-mail frequently.  Sometimes, I’ve thought about leaving the computer off for the entire day on a Sunday,  not because checking e-mail is wrong, but to keep from information overload and to be able to focus on more important things like renewal and family time.  Sad to say, a technology fast doesn’t last long for me and I’m convicted even as I type this (on my computer!)

Would a regular fast of some kind help you get off the “fast” track for awhile?  Spend some time fasting.  Just don’t tell me about it.

Meditate

“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do.”  Matthew 6:16a  NLT

1. When is the last time you gave up something for a period of time so you could focus on prayer or serving God?

2. What habit in your life could be suspended occasionally?

3. Why do you think Jesus said not to make your fasting obvious?

Express

Jesus, I see the value in fasting from time to time.  I don’t have to let anyone know about it – it can be a special time for You and me.  I know it can be healthy in other ways, as well.  Help me not to fear it, but to embrace the opportunity to let go of something for a while.

Lesson 16:  Spend  Time Outdoors

Turn to:   Matthew 8:1; Mark 1:16; Luke 9:28; John 6:15

Investigate

I'm writing this while traveling as a passenger through the mountains of Tennessee -- what a beautiful place!  Jesus spent a lot of time in the mountains.  (He also spent a lot of time walking—not a bad example of how to spend some time!) Our readings today are purposely taken from each of the four gospels.  The writers all noted Jesus spending time outdoors, often slipping away alone.  I imagine He used these times to be refreshed and to reconnect with His father.

We frequently camp (in a comfortable RV!). I usually feel more spiritually in tune and open to communicating with God when we are away camping.  There's something about being outdoors in natural settings that brings me closer to the heart of God.  I enjoy His creative handiwork right in front of me.  During the rest of my life, "outdoors" is often just the place I’m in when between all the indoor stops!

You may or may not be an "outdoors" person.  Some people prefer to spend time inside.  However, we cannot deny that Jesus spent a good bit of time outdoors. Do you ever wonder what Christ was thinking about during those times? Perhaps He was talking things over with His Father.  Perhaps He simply enjoyed the beauty of creation.  When surrounded by all this natural beauty, it is easy to think of God’s majesty.  Perhaps that is why the mountains seem to be a favorite for Christ.  The evidence of God’s power and majesty may have been a comfort to Him as he dealt with life on earth.

When I’m on these camping trips, I wonder why I can’t be as attune to God and a slower pace when I get back home.  After all, I live in the country in a home surrounded by woods.  You’d think I’d go outside a lot.  But, no, I get caught up in what has to be done or even some lazy habits.

That’s why we should follow Jesus’ example and get  away outdoors sometimes.  It doesn’t have to be for several days, or even an elaborate trip.  Maybe you could simply sit out in your backyard and observe some of the life around you. An intentional amount of time spent outdoors in quiet, natural spots, can be very refreshing.  It can be a time of strengthening us spiritually and mentally for the busier, scheduled appointments that are still important, too.

I think Christ is setting a wonderful example in going to the mountains or out by the sea -- God has provided many places to us for communion with Him --take advantage of them! Go take a hike!

Meditate

“…and went up onto a mountain to pray.”  Luke 9:28b  NLT

Are you an outdoor or an indoor person?  Regardless of your preference, do you think it is valuable to spend time outdoors?  Jot some thoughts.

Write down three outdoor spots that would be easy to get to, and could give you some solitude.  Make an appointment with yourself to go to one this week.

It could be argued that Jesus was outdoors so much because people at that time did not spend as much time inside.  If Jesus was on earth today, do you think He would make it a point to go outdoors frequently?

Express

Jesus, help me appreciate the outdoor beauty around me, wherever I may live.  May I realize this is a gift from You that encourages me to spend time with You.  Help me carve out intentional “natural” vacations for refreshment and refilling, and especially to spend time with You.

Lesson 17:  Spend Time Affirming Others

Turn to: Matthew 16:13-20

Investigate

“Wow, you are getting strong,” my husband said to our son while they were playfully wrestling.  Our son’s face lit up when his dad said that.  It affirmed his growing masculinity to hear his father say how strong he was getting.  It was valuable affirmation for a growing boy.

Jesus knew how to affirm someone.  In today’s passage, we see Him encouraging Peter.  Can you imagine how Peter felt when Jesus said, “You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church.”  (Peter means “stone” or “rock.”)  Talk about being affirmed!  Jesus affirmed Peter, and yes he was also firm with Peter when necessary.  Notice Jesus’ approach to affirmation:

Jesus used Peter’s name.  It is said that the loveliest sound to a person’s ears is the sound of their own name.  Don’t you feel good when someone remembers your name?  Some people are naturally gifted at remembering names.   Others need to spend some time and effort learning this skill.  You won’t regret applying this great courtesy to your relationships.  I imagine Jesus looked Peter right in the eye when He said it.  Do you affirm people around you that way?

Jesus affirmed Peter’s purpose. Jesus indicated that Peter was designed, or chosen, to be a foundation of the church. Sometimes we forget that we have been designed as a unique part of  God’s plans.  In using the rock image, which tied in with Peter’s name, he gave Peter a word picture of his role and worth.  He demonstrated to Peter how God was going to use him.

Jesus emphasized the source of Peter’s strength. Jesus told Peter that God had revealed truth to him.  He reminded Peter of the source of truth and in a subtle way reminded Peter that he could not take pride in his role. Could you take some time today to affirm someone’s relationship with God?  Perhaps you can gently remind them to draw from the Lord – their source of power.

Jesus affirmed what was lasting and important.  There’s no problem with saying, “That’s a nice dress,” or some other truthful compliment.  But real affirmation occurs when we choose to point out a lasting quality or character trait.  A great way to do this is to say, “The way you handled that problem demonstrated your skill as a peacemaker.  God has really gifted you!” rather than simply, “You did a great job with that problem.”

Jesus tied action to His affirmation.  Jesus told Peter, “Upon this rock I will build my church…I will give you the keys to the kingdom.”  Jesus enabled Peter to carry out his calling.  The power would come from God.  Peter would be a vessel.  How can you empower someone to fulfill God’s calling on her life?  Perhaps you can spend time teaching your child some important life skills and how to make character-based decisions.  Or you could faithfully pray for a friend who is seeking God’s will for her life.  Encourage them to study Scripture with you or to meet together for prayer.  Be a tool to empower someone else.

Spend some time affirming those around you.  It will make their day.  It will lift their spirits.  It will help them fulfill God’s calling on their lives.  Now, that’s time well-spent!

Meditate

“Now I say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church…”  Matthew 16:18a NLT

1. How do you feel when someone affirms you?

2. Think about the people around you.  Who could use some affirmation today?

3.  Before you affirm someone, think of a more meaningful way to encourage her than simply saying, “Good job.”  (Remember that pats on the back are okay, but we are looking for a way to deeply affirm someone.)  Once you have decided on a sincere encouragement, go out of your way today to follow through.)

Express

Jesus, help me find someone today that I can affirm like You did Peter.  Help me avoid empty compliments and help me spend my time sincerely encouraging people and empowering them to fulfill Your purpose in their lives.

Lesson 18:  Spend Time Dealing with Relationship Issues

Turn to:  Matthew 16:21-28

Investigate

Oh, Peter.  Back the train up.  In the last chapter, didn’t we JUST speak about the solid, loving affirmative blessing Jesus put on Peter!  What’s this, just a few verses later!?

I have to chuckle a bit at Peter.  Can’t you see him being just a bit proud?  After all, Jesus was building His church on him.  It would be easy to get a little puffed up.  We don’t know if that is what happened here, but it wasn’t long before Peter was quick to open his mouth.

Jesus got really firm with Peter, really fast.  Imagine how Peter might have felt.  Here he is, having received an affirmation about being a pillar of the church, and now Jesus looks right at him (“Jesus turned to Peter”) and says, “Get away from me Satan!”  Gulp.  That would bring you down to earth fast!  Jesus then spoke to all the disciples, reminding them to put away their selfish ambition.  I can just see Peter rather shirking down in his seat.

Don’t worry about Peter too much though.  Mark tells us in chapter 9 that “Six days later, Jesus took Peter, James and John to the top of a mountain.”  Peter was still part of the inner circle, and was about to view the transfiguration.  (Of course, Peter again jumped in and offered to build some shelter and a voice from heaven had to slow him down!)  Jesus had patience with Peter, but He didn’t pull punches when it was necessary to correct him.

This is hard for us.  We want to be liked.  We want tension-free relationships.  So we avoid conflict at the expense of dealing with hard issues.  I’ve seen situations like this, and recently, our pastor reminded us of the value of exhorting someone when necessary.  Matthew 18:15-17 lays out a step-by-step approach to dealing with conflict.  If an offense occurs, first you are to go to the person who has “sinned against you.” (On a side note, perhaps we too easily feel sinned against.  Scripture also teaches that love is not easily offended.) Discuss the issue just between the two of you.  If the individual will not listen, then approach him with one or two others.  If he still refuses to listen, you can bring the matter to the church.  Ultimately, though, we mess up from step one.  Instead of approaching the individual, we take the time to tell our “trusted friends” about the situation so they can “pray about it.”  In reality, we just want sympathy.  Eventually, we may talk to the individual who hurt us, but we have wasted a lot of time and sown seeds of discord if we don’t go to that individual privately and quickly.

If an unhealthy situation is not dealt with quickly, it can lead to a mess--a huge mess that causes

hurt, tension, and a whole lot of wasted time for a lot of people.  There can be negative, lingering effects, too, because how often do we remember to go back to everyone we’ve talked to and explain how the situation was fixed?  So follow Jesus’ example instead.  Deal with situations and attitudes quickly, without pride.  Take the valuable time to exhort someone in love, after prayerfully considering God’s leadership in the matter.  The time you use now may save much hurt and wasted time down the road.

Meditate

“Jesus turned and said to Peter, Get behind me, Satan!”  Mathew 16:23a NLT

Has the Lord had to deal with you firmly? Recall the situation.  Looking back, can You see His loving hand in the correction?

Do you agree that not dealing with difficult situations can lead to a lot of wasted time?

Is there a situation in your life right now that needs some heart-to-heart, loving head-on confrontation?  Pray for strength to deal with the situation quickly and move on.  Then do it!

Express

Jesus, I don’t like to be firm with people.  I want them to like me.  However, You show here that there is a time and place to deal firmly with relationship issues.  It will save much wasted time, and possibly worse hurt, later.  Guide me to approach these opportunities with grace, wisdom, and humility.

USE

To employ for or apply to a given purpose…

Time is a tool.  A tool should be used for good purposes.  We can use the time we have in a purposeful way to accomplish our calling from God, as Jesus did.

Lesson 19:  Use Time for Observation and Creativity

Turn to:  Matthew 13:1-23

Investigate

I lost it.  One stormy night I had some flow of inspiration -- could just see myself writing down my thoughts, but was lying in bed and not motivated enough to write down something in the middle of the night.  Why?  Because there’s a part of me that is stuck with the “rules.” I think night time is sleep time and should not be interrupted to get up and read or write.  I'm so locked in to the concern that it will have an ill effect on the next day that I neglect to be spontaneous. I wonder what creative thought I missed by ignoring the flow. I suppose Jesus would have taken the time to write it down, and would probably have used it in one of His stories.  He took everyday life objects and events and related them to deeper spiritual truths in a way that had great impact on those around Him.

I can do the same thing.  Sometimes I just make it too hard.  Perhaps what is best is to live life as God has designed it for me, and be ready to relate whatever He prompts me to share, perhaps even in creative ways.  Jesus would point out objects (such as the lilies of the field) and give people word pictures that would lodge in their memories.  Do I take the time to do that for people around me?  Do you take a moment with your friends, spouse, kids, to notice God’s creativity in a beautiful sunrise?  To be in awe of God’s power through a storm? To observe is great ... to creatively worship can be life-changing.

What’s it take to “consider the lilies of the field”?  The word “consider” implies taking enough time in between things to actually stop and think.  Can this be done in the middle of busy-ness?  I think so.  We aren’t told we have to stop for three hours (although retreats with long periods of rest are a-okay!).  We can grab a bit of refreshment in 5 minutes of chatting with a friend, or stopping for a few minutes to take in a beautiful view.  It’s in moments like this that we can observe the common, and make it uncommon.  It sometimes takes just a few seconds to have an inspirational thought or to turn a phrase of praise in our minds.  We don’t need to assume that we can never take in deeper truths just because we don’t have a whole afternoon to spare.  You never know when what you store away now can be used to creatively communicate His truth another time!  I write a lot of stories for children (see Edhelper.com) and it may be surprising how the ideas come about.  Many of them are simply from quick observation of situations and activities or some quick memory as I’m making way through daily life.  Then a story grows.

So the next time you are scurrying around, just pay better attention.  You may be moving at a fast pace, but your powers of observation can still work.  Do what Jesus did.  Take a better look at the common things and occurrences around you and use them to creatively communicate a lesson to yourself, someone with you, or your children.  You can spend small bits of time “along the way” as He did, making significant impact even with a quick observation.  Keep a little journal around, and jot down your thoughts and observations about your own story. Don’t let the excuse of “I’m just too busy to notice” rob you of a storehouse of creativity.

Meditate

“His disciples came and asked him, ‘Why do you always tell stories when you talk to the people?’ ”  Matthew 13:10 NLT

Jesus used stories to teach lessons.  Many stories come about from simply observing life.  What stories can you tell?

You may think you are not a “creative” person.  However, we are all made in God’s image, and He is very creative!  Find something to do this weekend that will stretch your creativity and write your thoughts about the experience here.

In what way can you creatively communicate God’s truth to someone else today?

Express

Jesus, even in the fast pace of life, I can observe what is happening around me.  Help my powers of observation and listening to be keen.  Help me to simply pay attention a little better, to take advantage of the moment to praise You or communicate Your truth to someone I care about in a creative way.

Lesson 20:  Use Time to Do What Has to be Done

Turn to:  John 13:1-16

Investigate

Today we are going to revisit the familiar account of Jesus washing the feet of His disciples.  In a church office where I worked, we had a painting depicting Jesus washing the feet of His disciples.  One day, a couple of our staff members were talking about it, discussing why Jesus chose to wash feet.  One of our pastors presented an interesting and simple thought. Jesus did what had to be done.  In that day, due to all the walking individuals did, it was common to need to wash your feet frequently.  Jesus stepped up to the task of washing people’s feet.

In our day, washing feet would be an out of the ordinary act of service and humility. But in those days, it was evidently not something unusual.  Therefore, though Jesus demonstrated humility, it is also significant that Jesus saw something that needed doing, and did it.

At times I’m inclined to be structured about things, defining whose role is whose and working within a framework of responsibilities.  Yet there are many times where something just needs doing …a piece of trash needs to be picked up from the floor … someone needs a hug or loving touch … someone needs a helping hand in a department that is not my area of responsibility.  You’d think I would not have time to handle my own responsibilities if I spend time doing “someone else’s job.”  However, the opposite is often true.  Most of those tasks don’t take long and often are just part of a daily routine.  In fact, it would often take longer to delegate them out. (Besides, how do you delegate a hug?) In addition, God seems to find ways to multiply our time when we walk in obedience to His promptings.  (Maybe you’ll be surprised by two hours at the office without phone calls! Or, perhaps someone will do an unexpected favor that eases your load.)

A coworker once commented that he liked to see one of our pastors walk from his car in the parking lot, because this pastor was in the practice of picking up trash along the way.  He admired this man doing something that “needed to be done” when he could have simply reported, “Hey, there’s a bunch of trash out there.”

I notice that although Jesus had a handle on His mission of bringing people into right relationship with God, often through teaching and conversations, when a little different opportunity to serve presented itself, He spent time on it.  For example, He made sure two crowds of hungry people were fed when he could have just sent them home to feed themselves or even miraculously cured their hunger pains without the hassle of catering.  He simply took care of the need.  He spent time with the kids who came around instead of shooing them away or figuring out some other child-care procedure.  In the process, he demonstrated a lesson for the disciples and for generations of people to come - sometimes, as a popular commercial states, it is best to just “do it.”

So the next time you run into a task and the first thought is “I’d better tell…” maybe you should follow Jesus’ example and do it yourself.

Meditate

“So He got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around His waist, and poured water into a basin.  Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel He had around him.”  John 13:4 NLT

1. There’s a time management principle that if something takes less than a few minutes to do, just go ahead and do it rather than delegate it.  For example, cleaning up a spill rather than calling a janitor.  On the flip side, some may say that it is better stewardship to delegate tasks that take less expertise.  What are your feelings about this?  Is one philosophy more biblical than the other?

2. What ordinary task can you do for someone today?

3. How have you been helped by someone just doing what needs to be done?  How did his actions

demonstrate God’s love to you?

Express

Jesus, often You put something in front of me that "needs to be done" and I think of who should do it.  Help me be so in tune with You that I realize when it's "my turn" to do what has to be done...and be blessed by the experience.  Help me not to be so worried about protecting “my time” that I miss the opportunity to follow Your example, and do what has to be done.

Lesson 21:  Use Time to Accomplish Tasks

Turn to:  Luke 10:38-41

Investigate

Some of us are “people” people, and some of us are “task” people.  Simply put, a “people” person would rather spend more time around people while a “task” person gets joy out of accomplishments.  Neither is wrong, and our bent has been created by God for a reason.  People-people can learn from task-people, and vice versa.

There’s a third type of person, a sometimes-complicated mix of “people-person” and “task-person.”  That’s me.  Sometimes it is frustrating.  Sometimes I enjoy interacting with others.  Other times, I just want to be left alone to get some work done!  However, a simple mindset can ease the frustration.  That is the mindset of Jesus.  People were the priority.  Tasks help you minister to people.

Let’s take a practical look.  Let’s say we are planning a banquet to honor volunteers in a ministry.  There may be a few folks who call the volunteers to invite them, greet them at the door, and present awards of thanks.  However, there were a lot of people behind the scenes, doing tasks like creating invitations to mail, decorating, or selecting and preparing food, or setting up chairs.  Who is most important? The upfront volunteers or the behind-the-scenes people? Both are.

Jesus’ time with Mary and Martha points this out. It is obvious that Martha is the task person.  We tend to scold Martha.  We think she should not busy herself with tasks.  Yet notice carefully.  Jesus does not tell Martha to stop doing the tasks she is gifted to do.  He instead deals with the attitude she is displaying and her underlying worries. (Remember how worry is a waste of time?)  His greatest concern in the matter was how Martha was upset and worried over the details.  That’s what Jesus lovingly points out.  He doesn’t say, “Martha, you waste too much time on dinner” or even, “stop making dinner and sit down.”  He affectionately points out, “My dear Martha, you are so upset over all these details!  There is really only one thing worth being concerned about.  Mary has discovered it – and I won’t take it away from her.” Isn’t it interesting that He doesn’t demand that Martha sit down, “like Mary.”  He simply helps her change her perspective.

Jesus knows Martha’s gift of service.  He has fellowshipped with this family before.  In fact, in John 12:2, John clearly points out that a dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor. “Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him.” There is no criticism of Martha’s gift.  The fact that Martha’s service is even pointed out gives value to it.  Martha’s tasks were an important part of the relationship the family had with Jesus.

The next time you are occupied with a task, think about what goal that task is helping to fulfill.  Who are you helping?  Perhaps we could note in our own planners who a task is helping, or what ministry will be enabled by our accomplishing this task.  We can care for others even in carrying out tasks.  We can demonstrate love, a smile, and service in our attitude while we spend time getting the job done.  Whether you are a task person or a people person, keep the priorities of relationships at center stage.

Meditate

“A dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor.  Martha served…”  John 12:2a NLT

Are you a task person or a people person?  Do you ever wish you were different?

Why could a task person and a people person potentially have trouble getting along?  What could they both do to minimize that possibility?

What task did you do today that enhanced a relationship?

Express

Jesus, in your loving interaction with Martha You remind me to use my time carrying out my gifts with the foundation of a proper attitude.  I see how much time can be wasted in agitated worry over tasks.  I get caught in that a lot.  Remind me that I’m not defined by what I get done so much as in the investment that time makes in my relationship with You and with others.

Lesson 22:  Use Time to Minister During Unexpected Opportunities

Turn to:  Matthew 9:27-34

Investigate

One evening, we had a friend over, accompanied by her widowed mother.  This woman, whom we will call Sara, was young, and the pain of her loss was still fresh.  Sara shared a compelling story.

On the way to visit her daughter, Sara became stranded in an airport. It appeared she would have to either sleep in the airport or get a room in a local hotel, which was unsettling to her under the circumstances.  While in the waiting area, she met a group from a church, who were headed on a short-term mission trip.

One of the leaders of this group struck up a conversation and encouraged Sara to rejoice in the Lord.  Sara told this individual that she, too, was a Christian.  She asked if any ladies in this group would be willing to room with her so she would not be alone.  At first, Sara sensed a willingness, but as time went on and arrangements were made, this group of Christians ended up sending her off on her own, all the while chattering about how they were on the way to serve the Lord in Haiti.  With tears, Sara got on a shuttle bus, and two hours later ended up at a hotel room alone wishing she could have held up a sign saying, "Minister HERE, minister NOW - Please!"

This group missed the opportunity for ministry "along the way" because they were too busy preparing for what they were going to do for the Lord.  Sometimes, God places people in our path, and we miss them because of the ultimate goal. Jesus was very good at ministering when an unexpected opportunity arose.  On two different occasions, He made sure that thousands of people were fed.  On another, he stopped to speak with a woman who had touched His robe.  In today’s reading, we see two blind men who followed him right into the house where Jesus was staying. Because of their faith, Jesus healed them.

We make plans, set goals, and calculate how much time our project will take.  But if all we do is spend all our time looking ahead, we may miss opportunities right in front of our face.  That could have happened to us tonight.  An extended relative stopped for a short visit at our family property. She brought her teenage son and one of his friends—two guys I’d never met.  Although I was editing this book prior to the first printing and needed to get it to the layout artist, and my husband was heading out of town early the next morning, we decided to invite them down to play pool.  I spent a few minutes chatting and they seemed to enjoy the hospitality.  I was able to get back to the project within a few minutes, and they enjoyed an evening of good clean fun with my husband and son.  It would have been easy to skip inviting them in, but I’m glad we did.   Jesus stayed focused and on track, but didn’t mind stopping along the way to show compassion, chat, heal, provide strength, point people to God, meet needs and quite possibly, play with the children.  He took advantage of times to minister along the way.  Be ready to minister—when you least expect it.

Meditate

“They went right into the house where he was staying, and Jesus asked them, ‘Do you believe I can make you see?’ ‘Yes, Lord,’ they told him, ‘we do.’  Then he touched their eyes and said, ‘Because of your faith, it will happen.’ And suddenly, they could see!”  Matthew 9:28-30a NLT

1. How did the story about the mission team make you feel?  Were you quick to judge them?  Now, think about an opportunity you may have missed, or a time when you felt overlooked.  Share that story here.

2. In planning what we will do for Jesus, we could miss what He has for us.  What steps can you take to sense His direction more clearly?

3. Instead of having to “get ready” to serve the Lord, how can you “be ready” for those unexpected opportunities?

Express

Jesus, so often my eyes are on the ultimate goal that I miss the irreplaceable opportunities to represent You to those around me.  Help me notice those opportunities along the way!  Help me not to pack my schedule so tightly that I walk right by those who need Your touch.

Lesson 23:  Use Teamwork and Delegation to Save Time

Turn to: Mark 6:7-13

Investigate

Jesus knew the value of teamwork.  Though He was not afraid to “just do it,” (see Lesson 20) He also was a master at delegation. He did not operate under the common principle that “to get it done right you must do it yourself.”  He selected others (some very unlikely choices!) to participate in ministry with Him. In the process of loving and teaching them, He helped them discover their unique callings.

Anyone around you like that?  Do you have an employee or friend that on the surface may not seem like the most likely candidate to fulfill a job?  Are you afraid to delegate because she may fail?

Jesus equipped His disciples, and then let them go out and minister. For years now, the gospel has been spread by people like us whom He is entrusting to minister here before He returns.  How’s that for a cooperative effort!?  How much less is accomplished when we hoard jobs to ourselves?

Let’s take a look at how wisely Jesus demonstrates the art of delegation and teamwork.

Jesus first  built a relationship with people.  The disciples had been with Jesus for awhile before they were sent out on their own.  Delegation is great, but the timing has to be right.  The disciples were able to observe, listen, and absorb what Jesus was all about before they were sent out with His message.  When delegating, don’t be too quick to let go . . .yet don’t hang on too long.  Allow people time to truly understand the project, the objectives, and some of the effective methods before launching them out on their own.

Jesus equipped people with authority. He gave them the power to represent Him in His physical absence.

Jesus sent them off with a last-minute instructional pep talk.  Jesus explained how to deal with villages that would not accept them.  He told them to pack lightly. (Maybe He expected them to be resourceful along the way?)  Notice that He did not spend any more time telling them exactly how to share the message or how to heal.  They had already had time to absorb His ways.  His last instructions were to do with burdens – one, how to handle the inevitable burden of rejection, and two, a reminder not to carry burdens into ministry with them.  What a waste of time baggage of all sorts can be!

Jesus did not send them out alone.  Jesus understood the value of relationships, teamwork, and accountability.  Effective ministry often erupts from small teams.  Couples, families, or small groups of friends serving together can be extremely valuable to the church, and their own relationships often grow in the process.  Cooperating with others eases burdens, builds relationships, and is a very effective use of time.

Delegation and teamwork is a great way to involve others in the life of the kingdom.  Don’t rob others of this opportunity because you think, “if I want it done right, I must do it myself.” If Jesus built teams and delegated, how can we do less?

Meditate

“And he called His twelve disciples together and sent them out two by two, with authority to cast out evil spirits.”  Mark 6:7 NLT

Do you live by the adage, “If you want it done right, do it yourself”?  Is that biblical advice?

Do you prefer to work alone or with a group?  Why?

What project are you facing now that may just benefit from teamwork and/or delegation rather than taking it all on yourself?  What steps will you take today to follow Jesus’ example?

Express

Jesus, help me to “let go” when I need to.  I realize my way isn’t the only way to accomplish things.  Help me mentor others so they can launch out and experience the joy of serving You.

Lesson 24:  Use Some Time to Learn Biblical Stewardship

Turn to:  Luke 19:11-26

Investigate

800 or more verses about money.  According to financial counselor Dave Ramsey, research shows that Scripture contains over 800 verses related to money management.   Jesus spent a good bit of time teaching about money. It was important to Jesus that people understand biblical stewardship.

What would wise money management have to do with a wise use of time?  Plenty.  You see, as mentioned before, we spend time on what we value.  For many of us, money provides a tangible measurement of the value of our time.  We want to be paid within a certain range. We want to spend only a certain amount for a particular item.  Those of us with jobs spend up to 60 hours or more per week earning money.  We often compute what we are worth “per hour.”

Since we spend so much time producing an income, it is wise to invest some time learning what to do with it.  We are told in Scripture, “moreover…it is required…”  We are not born with an innate ability to be faithful in finances.  Scripture also admonishes in I Timothy 6:10,  “For the love of money is at the root of all kinds of evil.  And some people, craving money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.”  That’s a pretty strong statement.  God knows that money can very easily become our love, and what we love, we will spend time on.  Too much time spent in pursuit of money, and our life can become sorrowful and burdened.  And a burdened, distracted life is not very effective for the Kingdom of God.

A wise person will spend some time studying scriptural principles of money management, and pass them along to his children.  When we have the proper perspective that our resources are entrusted to us as managers, not owners, many other pressures disappear, not the least of which is relationship problems.   Many marriages and relationships disintegrate due to poor money management and the resulting fights.  Many churches and ministries are ineffective due to lack of funds or worse yet, mismanagement of their resources.

Helping people grow financially wise has become a burden on the hearts of my husband and I.  Several years ago, we nearly filed bankruptcy and spent years digging out of a financial hole—a hole caused by our failure to learn and apply biblical principles.  God gave us grace through that time, although it was not easy.  He is now using those experiences in our ministry of helping others to learn biblical money-management principles.  What a blessing to hear how lives and relationships are changed as people invest the time to learn and apply these principles!  It’s taken time, effort and discipline, but the results have been well worth it, both for us and the students involved.  Jesus took the time to educate about money.  God’s word talks about it a LOT.  Invest some time to learn, apply, and even share what He taught!  I highly encourage you to read books on Biblical stewardship and enroll in classes such as Financial Peace University, Crown Bible Studies or other studies offered by ministries and churches. You won’t regret the time you use for this endeavor.

Meditate

“But when the man heard this, he became sad because he was very rich.  Jesus watched him go and then said to his disciples, ‘How hard it is for rich people to get into the Kingdom of God!’ ”  Luke 18:23-24 NLT

1. Do you consider yourself a wise steward?

2. What Scriptural principles of money management do you spend time applying?

3. Why do you think there are so many references to money in the Scriptures?

Express

Jesus, the money we have provides for our needs and helps us bless others, but we don’t own it.  Help us take some time in our life to become well-educated money managers for You.  Multiply the time we invest in helping others, and in teaching our families wise principles of stewardship.

Surrender

To give up claim to; give over or yield, especially voluntarily…

Our use of time will only be as effective as our attitude of surrender. Jesus realized that His time was truly not His own…His Father had given it to Him for a purpose.  We are wise to surrender the attitude of owning our time to one that acknowledges God as the owner and provider of this resource.

Lesson 25:  Surrender Your Plans to the Spirit

Turn to: Luke 4:1; 14-21

Investigate

One day I  was trying to figure out a plan for keeping up my house.  (I’m still trying to figure it out!) I'm that kind of person – I’ve got to have a plan for everything.  I keep lists and schedules.  As I was jotting down some ideas, it struck me, again, that Christ had a balanced perspective when it came to planning.   He had a usual routine, indicated in his regular habit of visiting synagogues on the Sabbath.  (See verse 16 of today’s reading: as was His custom.) Even so, Jesus relied on the Holy Spirit to prompt Him in following the map God laid out for Him.  For example, when it came time for Jesus to be tested in the wilderness, verse 1 tells us “He was led by the Spirit in the desert.”

Jesus was very much in tune with His Father, and was submissive to a long-term plan.  He said He came to “seek and to save that which was lost.”  He referred to the temple being destroyed and rising up again in three days.  He said he came that people “might have life, and have it more abundantly.” We can see that Christ knew about a long-term purpose, or plan, that God had for Him.  The daily working out of it, though, required the leading of the Holy Spirit as well as some standard disciplines.  As we mentioned in another chapter, He regularly went off by Himself.  He visited the synagogue on the Sabbath.  He took meals with friends and disciples.  Yet, He did not seem to be owned by the routine.  It was just a pattern that helped Him stay on track with His larger purpose.  And that’s where a plan can be a good thing, or a bad thing.

It is not unusual for me to sit down, and map out an entire day in increments of 10 – 60 minutes.  It helps to keep me on track.  I don’t think that is wrong, except for the times when an interruption occurs and messes up the plan, and I’m left feeling agitated.  That’s when the plan becomes something more important than a guide, defeating it’s very purpose.

Proverbs 16:9 says, “In his heart, a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.”  Notice that man’s plans are not condemned, but rather are submissive to the plans of  God.  I believe God is just fine with my planning and processes, AS LONG AS the plan fulfills the purpose.

We’ve got to be willing to let the Spirit mess with our plans. I’m going through this right now.  I’d served in a ministry for ten years when my position was eliminated.   My plans were to stay there indefinitely, but God messed with them.  In the months following my notification (I was given a long notice to adjust and transition smoothly) I learned to follow God’s will one day at a time.  I learned that I did know what His will was for each day.  It was when I got too far ahead in my planning that I could begin to panic.  The job change is not something I would have chosen, but by the last few weeks, I was excited and thankful for the valley!  I was on the brink of something new and resurrecting this book was a result of that discomfort!

When you sit down to make plans, make them prayerfully—even the simple, every-day plans of life.  There’s a form at the back of this book to help you with this.  Ask God to guide your planning sessions in such a way that the daily plans fit His overall purpose for you. Remember that plans fit a bigger plan.  He has much more in mind than your morning errands, yet He cares deeply about how those errands, and your response to opportunities He puts in your path, fit into the overall scheme of things.  Remember Jesus, who followed some basic routines, but was always led by the Spirit.

Meditate

“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.”  Proverbs 16:9 NLT

1. Are you a planner or more of a free spirit who floats through life?  How does your style help or hinder you in resting in God’s plans for the day?

2. Think about a time when your plans were disrupted.  How did you feel?  Is it possible the Spirit was messing with your plans for a reason?

3. Take a look at the form in the addendum.  Use or modify this tool in your planning and list making.

Express

Jesus, You are a God of order, and I don’t think You mind when I sit down and plan a schedule or even make a list. Help me plan with an appropriate spirit of surrender, like You did.  You never forgot Your purpose of fitting into a larger story and fulfilling the exact role Your Father had for You.  If anything, help my planning be a tool to help me be even more effective.  Be the Lord of my plan.  Give me strength and flexibility to adjust my will to Yours.

Lesson 26:  Surrender Temporal Goals in Favor of Eternal Goals

Turn to:  Mark 14:32-42

Investigate

Goal setting is a major exercise in most time-management systems.  Setting goals and breaking them into manageable pieces is an effective way to apply the right amount of time to a project.  Goals are important so that we avoid haphazardly traveling through life on a whim.  However, earthly goals are only part of the picture.  We fulfill God’s purpose for us best when our daily goals fit into larger goals of eternal importance.

Jesus was committed to eternal goals. His daily perspective was affected by the long-term vision to bring abundant and eternal life to people.  When we maintain a perspective that this world is a temporary stopping point in a journey of eternal life, we can set meaningful goals.  Everything we do has an impact on eternity.  I’m currently reading the book, “The Life God Rewards” by Bruce Wilkinson.  In it, Wilkinson points out many truths about the impact that our life here has on eternity.  With that attitude, I can design my life goals with a priority of having impact on my relationship with Jesus and others, and less on my comfort and convenience.

An attitude about the eternal helps us weather the storms and difficulties that come our way.  This doesn’t mean we won’t feel emotion.  In today’s reading we see Jesus deeply troubled. However, because He was committed to His father and the eternal plan, He proceeded through the stressful times with grace and trust. We can handle the minor disappointments and even major crises with a realization that there is a much bigger picture in every circumstance that affects us.  It is part of the larger story.  What He is allowing us to go through is for our good and the good of others. Though we may not understand these challenges at first, we can navigate through them more patiently with eternity in mind.

If we go through life without a perspective of eternity, we can waste a lot of time worrying. We’ve dealt with that in another chapter, but it bears repeating because many of us are recurrent worry-warts. I know I am.  It’s an almost daily battle. Have you ever considered how much time you may have wasted recently with lost sleep, ruminating over problems and not truly surrendering them to God?  I Peter 5:7 encourages us to “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.”  (NIV) Yes, He cares about us, but He also tells us to let Him do the caring for us.  If you ask someone to do something for you, you are supposed to let it go and let him or her handle it!  Talk about divine delegation!

Set your sights on eternity. Spend some time each day pondering the eternal impact of your goals and priorities.  Does the daily list bear in mind eternal goals?  Or is it just about “getting through the day?”  Surrender the temporal for the eternal.  Give yourself a paradigm shift!

Meditate

“ ‘Abba, Father,’ He said, ‘Everything is possible for You.  Please take this cup of suffering away from me.  Yet I want Your will, not mine.’ ”  Mark 14:36 NLT

1. Would you say that your current goals are more about your comfort, convenience and interests or what impact you can have eternally?

2. Is it wrong to have temporal goals?  Why or why not?

3. Write down one or two goals for the next week that will help you focus on things of eternal value.

Express

Jesus, sometimes it wasn’t easy for You to follow the goals the Father set for You.  But Your daily activities focused on things of eternal value. Help me maintain that same perspective in my daily life and choices.

Lesson 27:  Surrender Time to the Wilderness

Turn to:  Luke 4:1-13

Investigate

Do you ever feel "compelled" to go into the wilderness?  The New Living  Translation of Mark 1:12 shows that the Spirit “compelled” Jesus to go into the wilderness.  I don't know about you, but I'm usually inclined to avoid a wilderness at all cost!  I don’t mind spending some time outdoors, but in this case, Jesus was not going out to spend time in a scenic, refreshing environment. This was a challenging, uncomfortable situation.  Interestingly, the first place the Holy Spirit led Jesus after he was baptized was the wilderness for the purpose of being tempted, uncomfortable, and hungry.   Do you wonder if Jesus felt like, “What have I gotten myself into?”

Notice that the wilderness time followed a declaration of commitment.  Jesus set an example in being baptized.  It was a defining moment, starting His ministry.  Then follows 40 days of testing that commitment.  What a way to start!  I'd much prefer beginning a ministry by being equipped with everything and everyone I needed to do a good job.  I don't think I'd welcome an opportunity to be lonely, hungry and tempted.  Yet God must have felt that period was necessary for Jesus.  If it was necessary for Jesus, how can I feel these dry periods would not be effective for me?

Recently, my husband and I reached a point of a going to a “next-level” commitment with God.  We spent a good amount of time one morning wrestling through that and made the decision tangibly meaningful to us.  In the few weeks after that commitment, I experienced some dry spells.  Months later, God allowed me to go through a major wilderness in my vocational calling, mentioned in an earlier chapter.  Somewhat unexpectedly, my long-time job in ministry was eliminated.  I loved that job, and remained at the ministry for several months helping the transition.  It was during that wilderness that I learned much about trusting God for the next step, and I resurrected this book.  It was a scary but exciting time because I had to learn how to trust Him each day and fulfill His will one day at a time.  It was a necessary wilderness so I could accept my next assignment—something I wouldn’t have considered unless He lovingly kicked me out of the nest!

What do we learn by spending time in the wilderness?  We learn to trust.  We learn to be content without every comfort in the world.  We learn that our life's meaning is more than being the most efficient, organized and comfortable person we can be. We learn that God has a purpose in everything that affects us, good and bad, easy and hard, and it sharpens and challenges us for the next step in ministry. We also learn that while spending surrendered time in the wilderness, like Jesus did, God can and will minister to us.  He will make us stronger through surrender, and He knows and understands it takes time.  After all, He allowed His own son go through it for 40 days.

If you are going through a wilderness right now, take heart and surrender to it.  Jesus had to do this and God has His reasons.

Meditate

“Immediately the Holy Spirit compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness.” Mark 1:12 NLT

1. What could be considered “wilderness” experiences?  Are you going through one right now?

2. Think of a wilderness experience in your past.  How did you handle it?  Did you have an attitude of surrender?  What did you learn?

3. Is someone you know going through a wilderness experience?  Jesus had angels to attend to Him.  Be an angel and attend to someone today.

Express

Jesus, I don’t like the wilderness experiences.  They are tough.  I don’t want to go through the hungry and hard times.  However, I can see from Your life that it was the first thing You went through to be ready for ministry.  So I surrender to the dry spells and will willingly spend time wrestling through them.  I now understand that will not be time wasted.

Lesson 28:  Surrender Time to Interruptions, Part 1

Turn to:  Mark 5:21-43

Investigate

Interruptions.  We don’t like them.  Yet, they happen all the time.  In today’s reading, we see Jesus dealing with two interruptions in one short period of time. First, a synagogue ruler asked Jesus to help his dying daughter while a large crowd was gathered around Jesus.  On the way to help the daughter, a woman touched His robe for healing.  While He was speaking to the woman, men came to report that the daughter had died.  (We are not told how the ruler felt about the woman interrupting Jesus, but I may have been perturbed!)  Jesus went to the ruler’s home anyway and healed the girl.

When the woman touched His robe, He stopped to respond to her.  When over 5,000 people were getting hungry, He stopped teaching and arranged a miracle to feed them.  When children came by, He exhorted the disciples not to send them away.  If He had had the attitude of “I’ve got a schedule to keep!” each of these situations would have turned out far differently.

As we get to the end of this book, I am going to take two lessons to cover a subject that is one of the threats to good time management—interruptions.  Interruptions are such a part of daily life and we think of them as thieves of productive time.  Because of this, I was asked to teach a workshop on the topic for church office staff, to help them see interruptions as part of their work, rather than a problem to their work.  I’d like to take the time to share what I shared with them.  Some of the concepts may resonate from past chapters, so let them be a reminder for you.

Interruptions are…

Inevitable - Plan on them.  You WILL have interruptions.  Rather than get so annoyed by them, consider what God is trying to do in each situation.

Necessary – Interruptions are often actually essential to our calling.  Rare is the person who is called to seclusion.  We all minister to others, and when others come into the picture, so do interruptions.

Treatable – Some interruptions can be treated so they don’t become an unnecessary distraction.    Take a look at the wedding in Cana.  Mary came up to Jesus and told Him about the problem with the wine running out.  Evidently she was a little agitated, because Jesus could tell she wanted HIM to do something about it.  And what did He do?  He firmly responded, “How does that concern you and me?”  Jesus asked.  “My time has not yet come.”  He did not immediately just solve the problem or take care of the interruption.  Jesus’ response shows us that there are times it is appropriate to say “no” or “I will need to handle this later.  May I contact you…”

Encouraging -  Sometimes, we are grateful to have been interrupted.  Have you ever had a friend stop by unexpectedly?  Or received an e-mail that contained good news?  These are welcome interruptions!

Relational – While I was researching this topic, a church administrator shared,  "I try to begin each meeting with a simple question asking people how they are doing.... it amazes me that almost every time, there is something critical happening in their lives and we have a chance to pray about it." This was an “interruption” to the scheduled agenda yet this person was getting a handle on the potential blessings of interruptions.  As we can see from Jesus' example, He used interruptions as a time to relate with individuals.

Refreshing  - What?  They give us an opportunity for a fresh perspective.  Perhaps you've been dwelling all day on a particular project and someone stops in for something totally unrelated.  It can be an opportunity for God to say, "Hey, you there...I'm at work over here.  She needs you more than that database does right now."

Unavoidable - In the Screwtape Letters, C.S. Lewis portrays that one of the tactics used by Satan was to get humans to think they "own" things, like their time.   We become very frustrated with interruptions primarily due to a problem with ownership.  We think the interruptions are intruding on OUR time, when in reality, God owns our time.

Predictable - Some interruptions have a pattern.  Those interruptions can often be handled graciously because you begin to know the pattern (i.e. a certain person stopping by regularly, a family member liking to talk after work, etc.)  If you know of a predictable interruption, you can plan for it.  Perhaps you can prepare your heart and pray about a situation that you expect will happen.  Then, when it does, it won’t catch you—or your attitude, by surprise.

Tangible - If you are a checklist person, begin to look at your to-do list a little differently.  Read between the lines. Our list may have five items on it for today, but God's invisible list may also have "Visit with Betty,” or "Encourage Brad" worked in.  Try to visualize a to-do list with additional items. Surrender the to-do list to God.

Surrendering time for what we consider to be interruptions may turn out to be a God-sent opportunity.  He is free to interrupt us whenever He wants!

Now, I interrupt this chapter to encourage you to mediate on what you’ve learned so far.

Meditate

“Jesus realized at once that healing power had gone out from Him, so He turned around in the crowd and asked, ‘Who touched my clothes?’ ”  Mark 5:30 NLT

1.  Take each of the items above and jot down a personal thought about them.  Do you agree with the thought? How can you change your perspective if necessary?

Inevitable

Necessary

Treatable

Encouraging

Refreshing

Unavoidable

Predictable

Tangible

2. Have you had any interruptions today?  How did you feel about them?

3. Remember a time when you were interrupted, and it ended up being a great blessing.  Share that experience here.

Express

Jesus, help me look at interruptions differently.  You were interrupted quite a lot, and spent time dealing with each situation in the proper way.  Guide me in my daily decisions, but most importantly, help me realize interruptions are often designed as opportunities for me to grow and serve.

Lesson 29:  Surrender Time to Interruptions, Part 2

Turn to: Luke 5:17-26

Investigate

I hope you read today’s passage.  Talk about an interruption! When’s the last time someone lowered something through the roof to get your attention?   That’s what the friends of the paralytic did when they brought their friend to Jesus.  They evidently wanted to make an impression and cut through the everyday crowd for Jesus to see and help their friend.  They were determined, and Jesus responded by healing him.  (Do you notice that Jesus does not chide them for interrupting him?)  This was surely an example of interruptions being…

Interesting – Kristin Watts, a church business administrator, shared her feelings about interruptions.  “The real blessing that has come out of interruptions is the interesting things I have learned from and about my congregation.  I learned of hidden talents and skills that could be used in service of the church at some later date. But more than that, I shared in the life of the people I am in ministry with--getting to know them and their families better; learning what brings them joy and how God had been active in their lives.  What a blessing it is to hear faith stories both old and new and to share in the joy of living for a God who loves us.

Opportunities – interruptions often give us opportunities to minister!  Much of the time that Jesus spent healing was the result of someone taking the initiative to come to Him, and, in essence, interrupt whatever Jesus was doing at the time.  Therefore, interruptions are . ..

Not to be taken lightly – someone shared with me a situation in which she asked someone “How are you?”  and the individual burst into tears.  My acquaintance took the opportunity to take the person out to lunch and spend time listening and ministering.  She could have considered this “rabbit trail” a real interruption of the business at hand, but she didn’t.  I believe God was glorified, and this friend encouraged, by her choice.  She realized that sometimes, interruptions are . . .

Sent by God - Guess what, you have been called to spend time handling whatever “interruptions” God sends your way.  I found the following quote to sum it up admirably, “Just wait and see how those annoying distractions turn into anointed directions!”  Tom Holladay

So, how about you?  Are interruptions a bane or a blessing?  Today’s chapter is a little shorter.  Yesterday’s took a little longer.  Interruptions are like that, too.  You don’t always know when they are coming, or what time they will take.  They can be handled, and they can be welcomed.  Just remember Jesus!

Meditate

“Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the man, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.’ ”  Luke 5:20 NLT

Take today’s concepts about interruptions and jot your thoughts about how you can change your perspective about each item.

Interesting

Opportunities

Not to be taken lightly

Sent by God

Do you think the paralytic’s friends were pushy?

Has your perspective about interruptions changed through these lessons?

Express

Jesus, You surrendered time to interruptions, and at times even welcomed them because You knew they were the life of Your ministry.  Please help me have that perspective.  In fact, help me watch for the interruptions that are actually opportunities.  Help me discern which interruptions need to be managed better, so I spend all my time wisely serving You.

Lesson 30:  Surrender Your Life to Jesus

Turn to:  John 3:1-21

Investigate

You’ve just spent about a month looking at Jesus as the model of good time management.  Together, we’ve considered His effective use of time.  Many of the concepts we’ve looked at may not have seemed  too closely related to time management at first glance.  However, “time” is something no one can ever get away from.  However you measure it, whatever zone you are in, and whatever tools you have to “manage it,” time is a consistent gift to everyone.  We don’t all have the same amount of time on earth – that is up to our Creator.  However, we all have opportunity to utilize the time we have, in either productive or wasteful ways.

Even Jesus dealt with time as He walked on this earth.  Jesus didn’t simply spend time, or pass time.  He invested it … in people … in His relationship to God … in suffering greatly because He loves us so much.

Here you are at the end of this book, and perhaps you don’t even know what it means to have a relationship with this Jesus.  What does it mean to “spend time” with Him?  Can this be done in our modern world?  Yes, it can.  If you get nothing else from this book, learn this:  The one thing He desires so much is a relationship with you.  He wants to spend time with you.

How do you start?  It’s very simple, really.  Look at the passage above.  God sent Jesus to spend time on earth, live, die, and rise again, for US.  All we need to do is to accept His gift.  Jesus the ONLY way, to a relationship with God and a life eternally with Him.  We simply believe and accept His gift.  Turn from sin, accept His forgiveness and begin a special relationship that will last for eternity. This belief can be expressed in a prayer something like the one in today’s meditation.

If you have already done this, do you spend your time in surrender to His lordship?  Throughout these lessons we have seen how Jesus used the gift of time.  We have concentrated more on attitudes than on plans, encouraging a change in perspective that will influence our actions.

The time you spend in accepting Jesus’ gift and surrendering to His lordship is THE most important time you will ever spend on this earth.  He loves you deeply and longs to spend time with you.  Now, it is up to you.  Will you accept?

Meditate

“For God so loved the world that he gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.”  John 3:16 NLT

Have you ever accepted Jesus as your personal Savior?  The prayer below can help you express your belief to Him.

Is Jesus Lord of your life?  What areas do you need to spend time surrendering to Him?  Perhaps something from this book touches you personally.  Spend some time writing a prayer about that to Him here.

If this book has been helpful to you, think of someone you can share it with.

Express

Dear God, thank You for sending Your son.  I know I am a sinner and need the salvation only He provides.  I accept this gift of salvation and accept Him as my only Savior.  I want a relationship with You that lasts for eternity.  I surrender to You as Lord of my life.  Guide my journey step by step.  Help me to use the gift of time wisely.”

If you just prayed that prayer, you have just invested the most important few minutes of your life.  You have accepted a relationship and God is rejoicing!  Now, spend some time developing that relationship.  One of the best things you can do is to find a local fellowship that can help you grow in your faith, one that teaches God’s Word and disciples people in their friendship with Jesus.

If this book helped you find this relationship, please take the time to let me know. I’d love to hear about it!  You can contact me at:

Beth Beutler

HOPE Unlimited

PO Box 80424

Simpsonville, SC 29680-0008

beth@hopeunlimitedforyou.com

May Jesus bless you on your journey of spending time FOR Him, and WITH Him!

Addendum

Time Management, Jesus’ Way, focused on a way of thinking.  Time management tips and tools can help you act on that philosophy with practical action.  I’ve selected the following tips from my e-book, Better Time Management, the Easy Way, to help you get started.

Develop a family mission statement.  Determine what is important to your family by answering questions like “Why?” “What?” “Who?” and plan your home management standards accordingly.

Discover your style.  Are you primarily visual (learn by seeing), auditory (learn by hearing), or tactile (learn by feeling)? Organize your life accordingly.  If visual, use a variety of colors on calendars and notes.  If auditory, carry a small tape recorder to verbally “jot” reminders to yourself.  If tactile, use a variety of surfaces—write and organize index cards, type lists on a computer, etc.   Most people are a combination of learning styles, but use your primary style to your advantage.

Call your own answering machine or voice mail box and/or send yourself e-mails to remind yourself of things to do.  This works especially well if you think of a personal item while at work and a professional item while at home!

Rethink your work day by thinking of your “home” and “work” responsibilities as a whole.  For example, you may want to think of your work day as  “7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.”  Part of that time, you spend working for someone else, part of that time you work at home.  When 7:30 rolls around, stop working and enjoy the rest of your evening.

Pick certain days of the week to focus on certain rooms in the house—even if only for a few minutes.  The key to this system:  if you miss a day, DON’T make it up!  Just keep moving, and you’ll get back around to that room before you know it.

Forget a “To Do” list—how about a “I’m Done!” list.  Write down items as you FINISH and see how much that encourages you at the end of the day.

Where would you rather go?  A spotless house with an uptight hostess, or a clean but lived-in home with people who help you feel relaxed?   Exactly.

Save time on special occasions—buy small gifts like potpourri, candles, frames, when you are browsing or when they are on sale.  No doubt they will come in handy when an event like the birthday of your child’s teacher comes up or you want to bring a hostess gift to a dinner party.  You also will have something on hand to encourage someone spontaneously.

Harness your commute time and other times in the car rather than complain about it.  You can listen to Praise and Worship music,  enjoy a few moments of peace and quiet, converse with your spouse or children, brainstorm, etc.  Just be sure you concentrate on the road!

Get to know your own body language.  Most people can tell if they are getting upset—this is the worst time to react to a situation.  Instead, establish an automatic response when you start to feel this way.  For example, if you feel yourself tightening up during a conversation, tell yourself you will walk away for 15 minutes before reacting.   Responding, not reacting will help save valuable time spent repairing damage done in haste.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Lesson 1: Jettison Worry

Lesson 2: Jettison Doubt

Lesson 3: Jettison the Control of Others

Lesson 4: Jettison Poor Choices

Lesson 5: Jettison Wasteful Conversation

Lesson 6: Jettison Difficult Behavior!

Lesson 7: Enjoy Saving Other People Time

Lesson 8: Enjoy Time Resting

Lesson 9: Enjoy Time in Hidden Places

Lesson 10: Enjoy Relationships

Lesson 11: Enjoy Focusing on Others

Lesson 12: Enjoy Time with Children

Lesson 13: Spend Time with Jesus and People

Lesson 14: Spend Time Developing a Mission Statement

Lesson 15: Spend Time Fasting

Lesson 16: Spend Time Outdoors

Lesson 17: Spend Time Affirming Others

Lesson 18: Spend Time Dealing with Relationship Issues

Lesson 19: Use Time for Observation and Creativity

Lesson 20: Use Time to Do What Has to be Done

Lesson 21: Use Time to Accomplish Tasks

Lesson 22: Use Time to Minister During Unexpected Opportunities

Lesson 23: Use Teamwork and Delegation to Save Time

Lesson 24: Use Some Time to Learn Biblical Stewardship

Lesson 25: Surrender Your Plans to the Spirit

Lesson 26: Surrender Temporal Goals in Favor of Eternal Goals

Lesson 27: Surrender Time to the Wilderness

Lesson 28: Surrender Time to Interruptions, Part 1

Lesson 29: Surrender Time to Interruptions, Part 2

Lesson 30: Surrender Your Life to Jesus

Addendum