It’s Time: 7 Time Management Strategies to Take Back Your Calendar, Reduce Overwhelm, and Flourish on Purpose a 7-Day Plan by Najah DrakesSample

Day 3: Where Do I Start and Stop?

I'm eight years older than my next youngest sister. Growing up, we shared secrets, ideas, and even snacks. But the first time I saw her wearing my clothes, I lost it. I felt violated and disrespected. My clothes were mine, and the line into my closet was never to be crossed.

God also draws clear lines that are designed not to be crossed. In Creation, God clearly distinguished where the heavens stopped and the earth began. He separated the role of light from darkness and designated each seed to produce specific fruit according to its own kind.

Each aspect of Creation had clearly delineated responsibilities and operated within its purposefully designated territory.

One of the ways we can flourish within time is to remember God created our limitations deliberately on purpose.

Instead of fighting against limitations, we are encouraged to boast in them (2 Cor 12:9), recognizing every limitation we experience is an opportunity for Christ to demonstrate His strength. When we have limited time, resources, and experience, the optimal conditions exist for God to do more and with our less.

One of the greatest enemies of how we allocate time is to confuse what tasks are our responsibility, someone else's, and God's alone. Many of us spend time watering gardens that are not ours to tend. When we have clear boundaries, we do not waste time allowing other people's expectations to push us into unintended territory.

God has given us limited time, resources, and talents on purpose. Accept them and remember, we serve a God who specializes in doing more with our less.

His grace is sufficient even when the time is not available to get everything done.

Prayer:

Lord, show me the roles and responsibilities you assigned to me, You, and others. And give me the wisdom to know the difference. When my long list of to-dos calls my name, remind me to call upon Your name and rely on Your grace.

Journal Prompt:

Where do you need to strengthen your boundaries, clarify your responsibilities, and lighten your load?