What does the Bible teach about managing time?

I. Recognizing the Gift and Source of Time

Time is presented in Scripture as part of the created order, and it flows under the sovereignty of its Maker. “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1) establishes that God is the author of time. Humanity, as part of God’s creation, is entrusted with the responsibility to manage this limited resource for His glory.

Throughout the Bible, God’s lordship over time is displayed in events such as the establishment of the weekly cycle (Genesis 2:2–3) and His direction over Israel’s calendar and feasts (Leviticus 23:4). These examples reveal that God not only grants humanity time but also prescribes patterns for its proper use.

II. The Value and Brevity of Life

Scripture continually reminds believers that life is both precious and short. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, proclaims, “Teach us to number our days, that we may present a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). This request underscores the importance of acknowledging life’s finite nature and the call to live wisely.

James also points out the fleeting nature of existence: “You do not even know what will happen tomorrow! What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (James 4:14). These perspectives encourage believers to hold onto each moment as a gift and to make prudent choices in pursuit of godly goals.

III. Biblical Commands to Redeem the Time

1. Live with Diligence and Wisdom

Believers are urged to be careful in how they walk. Paul advises, “Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15–16). Here, “redeeming the time” implies using every opportunity to honor God and serve others.

2. Avoid Slothfulness

Throughout Proverbs, slothfulness is portrayed as an obstacle to fulfilling life’s duties. “A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber” (Proverbs 6:10–11). This teaching warns against idle living, urging believers to approach life responsibly and energetically.

3. Prioritize Eternal Investments

Jesus teaches, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). Time is managed most effectively when the central pursuit is God’s kingdom rather than transient matters. By ordering life around eternal purposes, believers ensure that their time is invested in what truly endures.

IV. Principles for Balanced Time Management

1. Setting God-Centered Goals

The Bible portrays individuals like Nehemiah who had clear, God-oriented objectives: rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls (Nehemiah 2:5). His example demonstrates the power of prayerful planning and goal-setting. Time is most effectively organized when believers align tasks with God’s priorities.

2. Sabbath and Rest

God designed a rhythm of labor and rest from the beginning (Genesis 2:2–3). In giving Israel the Sabbath, the Lord emphasized the value of ceasing from work to focus on worship and renewal (Exodus 20:8–11). This principle is echoed in the New Testament (Hebrews 4:9–10), reminding believers that rest is integral for holistic well-being and an important element of wise time management.

3. Serving Others

One of the chief ways to glorify God is through service. Jesus Himself came not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28). Spending time for the sake of others—caring for the needy, encouraging the downhearted, and sharing the truth—reflects a proper prioritization of one’s schedule.

4. Avoiding Time-Traps

Scripture warns about distractions, such as getting entangled in controversies or fruitless pursuits. Paul counsels Timothy: “Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly” (2 Timothy 2:16). While some entertainment and recreation are part of a healthy life, the biblical principle is to keep main priorities free from incessant distractions.

V. Examples of Biblical Figures Who Modeled Sound Time Stewardship

1. Jesus and Focused Ministry

The Gospels record that Jesus moved with intentionality: “Rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, He withdrew to a solitary place to pray” (Mark 1:35). Jesus balanced private communion with the Father and public service. He did not allow crowds or popularity to derail His mission but used His time purposefully.

2. Paul the Apostle and Mission

Paul’s travels across the Roman Empire illustrate structured plans and a readiness for divine re-direction. In Romans 15, he outlines his intent to visit Rome on his way to Spain (Romans 15:23–24). Yet he remains sensitive to God’s leading, adjusting as directed by the Spirit (Acts 16:6–7). His example highlights the blend of disciplined scheduling and submission to God’s sovereignty.

3. Moses and Leading Israel

Despite the enormous demands of guiding the Israelites, Moses listened to wise counsel from Jethro (Exodus 18:17–24). He delegated tasks, freeing himself for prayer, focus, and decision-making in alignment with God’s commands. This model of time stewardship showcases the importance of seeking help, structuring tasks, and prioritizing crucial responsibilities.

VI. Practical Suggestions for Applying Biblical Time Management

1. Daily Devotion & Prayer

Cultivate the habit of beginning or concluding the day by seeking God in the Scriptures and prayer. This anchoring practice fosters clarity and helps align priorities with God’s will (Psalm 119:105).

2. Structured Planning

Keep a schedule that identifies tasks essential to your spiritual, relational, and vocational life. James 1:5 reminds believers to seek God’s wisdom, ensuring decisions and plans are refined and guided by Him.

3. Regular Evaluation

Periodically review how time is spent. Consider which activities draw you closer to God and which might distract from your primary callings. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, believers are exhorted to do everything for the glory of God. Reminders like this can guide in thoughtfully reviewing one’s time usage.

4. Purposeful Rest and Recreation

Embrace times of rest as an act of worship. Proper relaxation allows for rejuvenation, strengthening believers for continued ministry and daily work. It also recognizes our complete reliance on God’s sustaining power rather than our own strength (Matthew 11:28–29).

VII. Conclusion

Scripture likens life on earth to a brief vapor, urging wise and diligent use of every moment. From Genesis to Revelation, the overarching emphasis is that time is a sacred trust from God, to be employed in nurturing a deeper relationship with Him and in fulfilling responsibilities. Whether through honoring the Sabbath, redeeming the time, or following the examples set by biblical figures, managing time well remains a vital aspect of faithful living.

By grounding one’s approach to scheduling in these truths, believers can cultivate a balanced, God-honoring lifestyle. Managing time biblically ensures that day-to-day tasks serve a higher purpose, aligning with God’s design for human flourishing and glorifying Him in all things.