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IN HIS FOOTSTEPS: Prioritizing Tasks

A Guide to Effective Leadership

Devotion Fourteen. July 14, 2025

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).

The Challenge

A few years ago, while I was the head of mission and evangelism, our church programs faced challenges under our church leaders because the church's plans kept failing. The church would gather to strategise but lacked clear priorities, burdening members with simultaneous fundraising demands for several programs. In leadership, many things require attention, and without proper planning, nothing yields results. 

Learning from Experience

As I reflected on this experience, I realised the importance of prioritisation. Building on this experience, I learnt that prioritising the most urgent tasks first is key to achieving remarkable outcomes for the church or ministry. Jesus taught his disciples to prioritise heaven above all so that other things would be added to them. He said, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness" (Matt. 6:33), highlighting the importance of focusing on key tasks. 

Putting it into Practice

Now, let's consider how to apply this principle. By applying this principle, leaders can lead their followers effectively. When leaders focus on their priorities, they serve more easily, accomplish their goals, and avoid overloading their plans. To put this into practice, leaders should create a strategic list of pressing items, avoid multitasking, set clear goals, and stick to agreed-upon plans to increase productivity, reduce stress, and achieve objectives efficiently.

A Personal Testimony

In my own experience, when I took leadership of the church, we re-strategised church plans and urged members to prioritise pressing items first to avoid being overwhelmed. This approach worked well, and we achieved success in every plan we laid out. 

Reflection and Action

So, what can we learn from this? Consider a moment when your project failed due to another demanding project. What would you do differently? Where and when will you apply this principle in your leadership? How will prioritising tasks benefit the church, organisation, or community you lead?

Conclusion

In conclusion, you, too, need to rebalance your tasks and let God’s righteousness guide your work. James 4:13-15 reminds us not to boast about our plans or what tomorrow will bring, but to rely on His will. Prioritising tasks is one of the best ways to demonstrate effective leadership.

Prayer

Dear God, help me learn to prioritise tasks as I lead your church or community. Having felt the burden of overloaded tasks, I commit to making a change in my approach to planning for efficiency. 

Amen.

 


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