By: admin On: January 12, 2016 In: Devotional, Spiritual Growth, Time Management Comments: 0

Approving the Things that are Excellent

As we move ahead into the 2016 year, desiring to manage our time wisely, let’s start with the big picture – “approving the things that are excellent (Philippians 1:10).”

Paul is encouraging the Philippian believers to approve or test those things which are of value. The Philippian believers were faithful, but Paul wanted them to grow by learning to discern between good things and excellent things; in other words, those things which would add value to their love for Christ and the abundance of life that He offers.

We would all admit, there are many good things Christians have the opportunity to get involved with. But we can make the mistake of overwhelming our schedules with good things, that may not be benefiting us in the long run. In order to be able to discern what is excellent, it is necessary that we know what we value. Values are rules for living and decision making. They are deeply held beliefs that should lead us, as we choose between what is good, and what is excellent.


Time Management, Spiritual Growth


As each year comes to an end, I pray and prepare for the New Year. I have found three easy questions helpful in managing my time.

  1. What is it that I value? Is it personal quiet time, time with friends and family, time to serve in ministry, time to read or write, time to disciple other women? Without knowing my values in advance, it will be difficult to set aside the time I need to live out those values.
  2. What is it that I would like to accomplish this year? A closer walk with God, more time to rest and reflect, time to invest in the lives of others? How will my actions line up with what I value?
  3. How do I prioritize my time? What would it look like to schedule my time for these opportunities on my calendar? Calendaring this time, prior to making other commitments, is the secret to filling up my calendar with only excellent things.

Best-selling author on time management, Stephen Covey, said it this way, “Time Management” is really a misnomer – the challenge is not to manage time, but manage ourselves. The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.”

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