Daily Digest: Capstone Capsule

“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, REDEEMING the TIME…” – Ephesians 5:15-16a

A key aspect of the Stewardship of Life is the IMPACTFUL STEWARDSHIP of TIME: “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, REDEEMING the TIME, because the days are evil” (Eph.5:15-16). These verses speak to the wise use of time through understanding and aligning with God’s Will: “Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is” (v.17). Time Management is a form of spiritual stewardship focused on using our lives intentionally to honour God and build His Kingdom. The goal is not just productivity but wise, prudent, and purposeful living with an eternal perspective. 

The Apostle Paul urges believers to be intentional with their time by living with wisdom, not foolishness. “Redeeming the time” literally means “buying back” the time or “making the most of every opportunity.” This is a call to be strategic and seize every chance to do good and advance God's purposes in a world that is hostile to the Gospel. The instruction to “understand what the will of the Lord is” (v.17) contrasts the wise use of time with foolishness, which includes the misuse of alcohol: “And do not be drunk with wine” (v. 18). Making the best use of our time is directly linked to understanding and living out God's Will. 

The psalmist in Psalm 92:10 asked God for the wisdom to number our days, because life is short: “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” This aligns with God's perspective to manage time wisely and with an urgency that creates lasting impact. Recognising the brevity of life demands that time on earth be measured, managed, and maximized, compelling us to value each day, and focus on eternal rather than temporal matters. To number our days is not just a literal counting of days; it is to become intensely aware of and understand life’s limited nature and the need for purposeful living.

The book of Proverbs contrasts diligent planning with impulsive, reckless action, revealing a key to lasting impact. Proverbs 21:5 highlights the benefits of diligence and proper planning: "The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, but those of everyone who is hasty, surely come to poverty" (NKJV). Overall, scriptures underline making the most of time, being proactive, and avoiding idleness. Time is Life! Life Management is essentially Time Management, which when done effectively increases productivity, reduces stress, and creates a greater sense of fulfilment. We are to plan with diligence, not haste.

Intentional Living involves knowing the value of each day, seeking wisdom in our choices, and aligning our actions with God’s greater purposes: "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men” (Col.3:23). We are motivated to use time excellently and wholeheartedly for God’s Glory!