As Christians we must keep a close watch on why we do what we do. This applies to how we manage our time and organize our world. Thus, the source of our motivation is the topic of today’s post and the final point in this little series (if you’re joining us for the first time this week, you can catch up on our discussion by reading parts one, two, and three).
Ah yes, our motives. How easy it is to assume that they are pure and noble. But let's stop and ask ourselves: Why do we attempt to make good use of our time and organize our homes, our offices, our lives? Well, let's be honest. All too often our motives are sinful and selfish. For example, can you relate to any of the following reasons for organizing your life?
- I feel good about myself when I’ve had a productive day, or my home or office is organized.
- I want others to be impressed by how efficient and “on top of things” I am.
- I am afraid people will think I’m lazy or incompetent if my house or office is messy, or if I don’t plan my schedule well.
- I want my boss to notice my time-management and organizational skills so I can get ahead.
- I want other women to admire how I manage my home.
- I have a really hard time if my house or office isn’t neat or if my schedule doesn’t work out.
Here's the danger. We can be the most organized, efficient woman possible and yet fail to please and glorify God. We can have our homes, offices and lives in order, but for the wrong purpose and person - ourselves.
Once again Scripture comes to the rescue and addresses the appropriate motve for time management: "Whether you eat or dring (or organize or plan or manage your time), whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31).
So before we begin to plan and organize our lives, let's give attention to that which is most important - our motives. Let's by the grace of God plan and organize so as to more effectively serve God for the glory of God alone. This holy motive will have a transforming effect on our attitude and approach to time management and any task we tackle. And this way, even when our homes or our offices are a mess, our hearts will be pleasing to God.
