Redeeming the Time: Your Day for God’s Glory

jordanmuck
Oct 31
3 min read

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” — Ephesians 5:15–16

If you asked people what they do besides work, watch TV, or scroll their phones, you might expect silence. But the truth is, many of us do fill our time - with family, faith, creativity, and simple joys.

The real question is: Are we spending our time in ways that glorify God and shape us into Christ’s likeness?

1. The Stewardship of Time

Time is one of the most valuable gifts God gives us. Unlike money or possessions, we can’t earn more of it. Psalm 90:12 says,

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

This isn’t about squeezing more into our schedules - it’s about aligning our hours with God’s purposes. Every minute matters when it’s offered to Him - reading, praying, creating, gardening, serving, walking, laughing, parenting - use ordinary moments for eternal significance.

2. Rhythms That Reflect Christ

Jesus modeled a balanced, intentional life. He worked hard, withdrew to pray, shared meals, taught truth, and served people. Our use of time should reflect those same rhythms:

A. Time for God (Worship & Word)

Bible study, prayer, and worship are essential habits for any believer.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness…” — Matthew 6:33

Make time every day to meet with God through His Word and prayer. This isn’t legalism; it’s life support. Your heart and mind need daily renewal (Romans 12:2).

Application:

Block out 10–15 minutes each morning for prayer and Scripture before opening your phone.
Try creative journaling to engage Scripture more.
End the day with gratitude and reflection.

B. Time for People (Relationships & Service)

God designed us for relationship - not isolation. Jesus’ ministry revolved around people. He ate with them, walked with them, and served them. Time spent investing in relationships is never wasted.

Application:

Turn family routines (meals, car rides, bedtime) into discipleship moments.
Host a meal or coffee with a friend once a week - not for entertainment, but encouragement (Hebrews 10:24–25).
Serve with your church or volunteer locally as an act of love.

C. Time for Rest (Sabbath & Recreation)

God rested on the seventh day — not because He needed to, but to show us how. Rest reminds us that we are finite and that He is God.

Rest isn’t laziness; it’s worship. It’s saying, “I trust You enough to stop.”

Reading, crafting, music, puzzles, gardening, camping, and laughing are gifts that reflect the Creator’s joy.

Application:

Schedule regular “unplugged” time - a walk, a book, a conversation.
Practice Sabbath weekly. Prepare ahead so you can truly rest.
Let creativity, play, and laughter remind you of the goodness of God.

3. Redeeming the Everyday

Colossians 3:17 calls us to,

“Do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

That means laundry, carpooling, cooking, cleaning, and yard work can all be sacred acts when done in gratitude and love.

Your time doesn’t need to be glamorous to be godly. The goal isn’t to escape your life - it’s to invite Jesus into every part of it.

Application:

Turn chores into prayer prompts.
Listen to worship or Scripture audio while you work.
Offer your daily tasks to the LORD as worship before you begin.

4. Living with Eternal Purpose

The world tells us to fill our time with entertainment and distraction. Christ calls us to fill it with purpose and presence.

Paul reminds us,

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” — Colossians 3:23

When our time is surrendered to Christ, even ordinary minutes carry eternal weight. Every conversation, every act of service, every quiet moment of rest becomes a way to glorify Him.

Conclusion: A Prayer for Our Time

Lord, teach us to use our time well —to seek You first, to love people deeply, to rest in Your grace, and to serve with joy.Let every moment of our days reflect Your presence and purpose.Amen.

When we stop doom-scrolling and start soul-scrolling - through Scripture, relationships, and creation - we begin to experience the abundant life Jesus promised.Time, when redeemed, becomes worship.