Today’s Scripture

“By pride comes nothing but strife, but with the well-advised is wisdom.” – Proverbs 13:10 (NKJV)

Introduction: The Cost of Poor Time Management

Time is a gift, yet so many of us struggle to manage it effectively. Proverbs 13:10 points to pride as a root cause of strife, and this applies to how we approach time. Pride often leads to overcommitment, procrastination, and an unwillingness to seek help. Mismanaging time creates stress, missed opportunities, and an imbalance in life. The good news? There’s a way to fix it.

Why Pride Leads to Time Mismanagement

1. Overestimating Our Abilities

Pride convinces us that we can do it all, leading to unrealistic expectations. This causes us to take on more than we can handle, leaving little room for rest or focus on what truly matters.

• Example: Martha in Luke 10:40 busied herself with many tasks, but Jesus reminded her that only one thing was needed—to sit at His feet.
• Solution: Humble yourself by recognizing your limits. Focus on priorities and delegate when necessary.

2. Procrastination and Avoidance

Pride can also manifest as fear of failure or perfectionism, leading to procrastination. By avoiding difficult tasks, we waste precious time and create unnecessary stress.

• Biblical Insight: Proverbs 6:9-11 warns against laziness, reminding us that procrastination leads to lack and regret.
• Solution: Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and commit to starting, even if conditions aren’t perfect.

3. Refusing to Seek Guidance

Pride keeps us from asking for help or seeking wisdom from others. Proverbs 13:10 highlights that with the well-advised comes wisdom. Time mismanagement often stems from trying to do everything on our own instead of learning from others’ insights.

• Example: Moses struggled to lead Israel alone until Jethro advised him to delegate responsibilities (Exodus 18:17-23).
• Solution: Seek guidance from mentors, peers, or God’s Word to improve your approach to time management.

Steps to Fix Time Mismanagement

1. Surrender Your Time to God

Start by acknowledging that your time belongs to Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord and lean not on our understanding. When we invite God into our plans, He directs our paths.

• Practical Action: Begin your day with prayer, asking for wisdom to prioritize effectively.

2. Set Clear Priorities

Identify what truly matters and focus your time on tasks that align with God’s purpose for your life.

• Biblical Example: Jesus prioritized time with His Father in prayer before attending to the needs of others (Mark 1:35).
• Practical Action: Use tools like to-do lists or planners to stay organized and keep your priorities in check.

3. Learn to Say No

Not every opportunity is a divine assignment. Saying yes to everything dilutes your focus and hinders your effectiveness.

• Biblical Insight: Ecclesiastes 3:1 teaches that there is a time for everything, reminding us to choose wisely how we invest our time.
• Practical Action: Politely decline commitments that don’t align with your priorities or season of life.

4. Commit to Accountability

Share your time-management goals with a trusted friend or mentor who can encourage and challenge you.

• Biblical Insight: Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.”
• Practical Action: Regularly review your schedule and progress with someone who will hold you accountable.

The Blessings of Proper Time Management

When you learn to manage your time wisely, you experience peace, productivity, and alignment with God’s will. Proverbs 13:10 reminds us that wisdom leads to harmony, not strife.

• Joy in Simplicity: By focusing on what matters, you reduce stress and enjoy life’s blessings.
• Fulfillment in Purpose: Managing your time according to God’s priorities allows you to accomplish His plans for your life.

Conclusion: Humility Unlocks Wisdom

Proverbs 13:10 reveals that pride leads to strife, but wisdom brings peace. Mismanaging time often stems from prideful attitudes, but by surrendering your schedule to God, setting clear priorities, and seeking guidance, you can transform your time into a tool for His glory. Humility is the key to living a life of intentionality and purpose.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of time. Teach us to manage it wisely and humbly seek Your guidance. Help us prioritize what matters, avoid distractions, and align our schedules with Your purpose. Grant us wisdom and discipline to live every moment for Your glory. Amen.