Stewarding Your Time as Well as Your Money

We often talk about stewarding money, but time may be even more precious. You can earn more money, but you can't earn more hours. How we spend our days is how we spend our lives.

Number your days

Psalm 90:12: "So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom."

James 4:14: "For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away."

Life is short, and each day is a gift. Recognizing that helps us live wisely.

Redeem the time

Ephesians 5:15–16: "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil."

"Redeeming the time" means making the most of every opportunity.

Jesus' example

Jesus had only about three years of public ministry, yet He never seemed hurried. He took time to pray (Mark 1:35), to rest, to eat with friends, to notice individuals, and to say no to some demands. He did exactly what the Father gave Him to do (John 17:4).

A simple time audit

For one week, track how you spend your time. Then ask:

• Where is my time going?
• Does my schedule reflect my priorities: God, family, health, work, rest, and service?
• What's taking time that doesn't matter much?
• What's missing that should be there?

Many people are surprised by how much time disappears into screens.

Practical ways to steward your time

• Put first things first. Schedule time with God, family, and rest before the calendar fills.
• Learn to say no. Every yes is a no to something else.
• Build margin. Leave space in your schedule for interruptions and people.
• Batch tasks like errands and emails.
• Limit screen time.
• Protect a weekly Sabbath.
• Review weekly. Look ahead and pray over your calendar.

Time with people matters

At the end of life, few people wish they'd spent more time on email. Many wish they'd spent more time with the people they love. Invest your time in relationships.

A Christian watch can be a daily reminder that your time belongs to God, and a journal helps you plan and reflect.

A prayer

Lord, teach me to number my days. Help me spend my time on what matters most: You, the people I love, and the work You've given me. Free me from busyness and fill my days with purpose and peace. Amen.

More: Faith Over Hustle.