A Lesson in Time Management
Do you ever feel like you are running on a treadmill that is moving way too fast? I know that I feel that way a lot!
But I do have days where I feel like I'm on top of things and have everything under control. Yesterday was that kind of day for me. I was checking things off of my to-do list left and right! I had a good day at work where I felt like I got a lot done. I cooked a good, healthy dinner and fed Jack. I got to spend some time playing with Jack, gave him a bath, and put him to bed without any fuss. Then I actually exercised and did several loads of laundry and a few other random chores. It felt good! I didn't get to do any of the things I wanted to do just for fun (like veg out on the couch and watch TV or play MarioKart with my husband), but it was worth it to feel like I had accomplished some important things!
But then, as I was crawling into my cozy, warm bed ... it hit me! I had forgotten to do something very important. I had not spent any quiet time with God that day. And I'll be honest ... I rarely make time like I should to spend time with God. I should have gotten out of bed right then, but I confess ... I let my exhaustion win.
Sometimes we get so focused on nurturing the earthly relationships in our lives — being a good employee and co-worker, taking care of our children, spending time with our spouses, even making time to take care of ourselves — that we forget about the most important relationship! If I could just remember every day that my relationship with God is the glue that holds all of my relationships together, I think I would do better at making time to spend with Him. I know that when I do make the time to spend with Him, somehow I feel like I have more time in my day and I take better care of the people in my life. So why do I find it so hard to make the time?
I know time management is not just a struggle for working parents. It is a struggle for every parent! But as a working mother, it's definitely something I battle with every day.
So tell me ... as a busy parent, how do you find time during your busy day to stop and spend focused time with God?
Be sure to check out our "Working Life" column each month in ParentLife for practical advice and encouragement for working mothers and fathers.
