Devotion Seventeen. July 17, 2025
TEXT: "So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
In South Sudan, time management is something that most people fail to follow. Many take their own time to respond to tasks, events, or duty calls. They even claim that in Africa, there's no hurry, so each person has their own time to follow. However, this approach has created problems with some activities that could have been done earlier to allow for gaps between tasks. As a result, people end up completing one-day tasks in two days or more.
This lack of time management has significant implications, particularly in leadership. Time management is crucial for efficiency and effectiveness in leadership. It's the leader's responsibility to focus on delivering services or accomplishing objectives within a set timeframe. The Psalmist asked God to teach him to number his days wisely to gain wisdom (Psalm 90:12). In other words, he requested God to help him use time profitably, guided by wisdom.
Effective time management requires certain key strategies. These include strategic planning, setting priorities, avoiding distractions, and allocating breaks to recharge. Leaders who work according to these guidelines achieve great things within a short time. They don't tire easily and minimise the dangers of procrastination. Furthermore, the Bible emphasises the importance of redeeming our time. Paul called the Ephesians to redeem their time and make it useful to the Lord (Ephesians 5:16).
As I reflect on my own experience as a leader, I've learned the importance of time management. When leaders don't manage time, they fail the people they lead. I've had to enforce time management with my team, and sometimes I've gotten frustrated when I had other things to do. I find it hurtful when I arrive late at church, even though members don't come on time. On several occasions, I've cancelled programs when I knew we'd be late. My intention isn't to be harsh but to honour God, who created time and commanded us to redeem it.
Let's consider a practical scenario. Imagine arriving late to church, with people waiting for you to give a sermon. What would be the impact? How do you handle time pressure in your ministry or organisation? These are important questions to consider as we strive to be effective leaders.
To manage time effectively, avoid multitasking, set schedules, and follow them strictly. Don't let distractions overtake your plans. By following these tips, you'll succeed in many things as planned. May this principle help you re-strategise your time, avoid procrastination, and obey God's voice instead of external pressures. Leaders lead by example, and time management is one way to inspire followers and glorify God.
Prayer
Dear God, I'm not perfect in time management. Sometimes I'm driven to please people, and I misuse the time You've given me. Help me number my days with wisdom and redeem the time while I wait patiently for Your return.
Amen.
