The Apostle Paul warned against wasting time, exhorting people to make the most of every opportunity (Eph. 5:16; Col. 4:5). He went so far as to command the Thessalonians not to come under the influence of a “believer who is idle” (2 Thess. 3:6). Instead, he told them to follow his example in time management. He said, “We were not idle when we were with you” (2 Thess. 3:7). He went on to explain some of the specifics of what they did to make the most of their ministry among them.
3 Traits Found in a Leader Who Serves as a Good Example in Time Management
We might tend to think a good example in time management as someone who knows how to plan and stick to a schedule. It is, however, about more than what we do. A Christ-like model exhibits certain traits that cause them to make the best use of their time.
Consider the three traits seen in 2 Thessalonians 3:6-9.
1) Other-centered
The Apostle Paul explained that what they did was for the benefit of others. He said they “worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden” (2 Thess. 3:8). Paul didn’t merely consider how the use of his time affected himself. Remember that Jesus came not to be served but to serve (Mk. 10:45).
2) Sacrificial
Paul willingly laid down some of his rights (2 Thess. 3:9). He didn’t just do what was comfortable or convenient for him. Being a church leader didn’t mean others should cater to him. Think of Jesus’ example in humbling Himself to the point of death. Though “being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage” (Phil. 2:6).
3) Purposeful
Paul told the Thessalonians that he intentionally spent his time the way he did “in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate” (2 Thess. 3:9). He considered the bigger picture, knowing it wasn’t just about what he did in the moment but the long-range effect of how he used his time. Read about how Christ-like schedules are purposeful.
To hold ourselves up an example in time management, we must think beyond mere productivity to that which makes us spiritually productive.
Also Check Out: Time Management Resources
All Posts about Time Management:
- Disciple-Making Schedules
- Sustainable Schedules
- Prioritized Schedules: The Number One Priority
- Prioritized Schedules: The Second Priority
- Accountable Schedules
- Spiritually Blessed Schedules
- Spiritually Productive Schedules
- Hindrances to Spiritual Productivity
- Time for One Another
- Christ-like Schedules are Purposeful
- Time Managed by the Gospel
- Tips for Gospel-oriented Time Management
- Grace for These Times and How You Manage Your Schedule
- The Difference Grace Makes in How We Manage Time
- The Spirit Helps Us Manage Time
- How Spiritual Gifts Help with Time Management
- Busyness Affects Ministry
- Combatting the Lies about Busyness
- Too Busy to Pray?
- Biblical Prayers about Time Usage
- Good Stewards of Our Time
- Managing Time in the Name of the Lord
- Let God’s Word Guide the Use of Your Time
- Example in Time Management