I recently asked some friends to describe their schedules, and I heard words familiar to my own experience: “Full.” “Overwhelmed.” “Slammed.” “Drowning.” “Chaotic.” “Disappointing.” “Very crazy busy.” Maybe it is just a feature of living in a Southern Californian setting, but I suspect that Angelinos are not the only ones who would describe their schedules this way.

Our Leadership Team at work has recognized that how we use our time impacts both our personal and professional lives, and we want to be effective in both for the glory of God. As we explore this, we are reading together: Redeeming Your Time:  7 Biblical Principles for Being Purposeful, Present, & Wildly Productive By Jordan Raynor (available on Amazon). We will read the book over the next three months, and I’ll add here the questions we are discussing and a challenge idea from each chapter.

In the author’s own words, “This book attempts to create a unique balance between the theological, the theoretical, and the tactical” p. xxi. I pray you find it to be helpful.

Introduction

• The Author used the word “swamped.”  What other synonyms do you use to describe your schedule?
• What other books have your read about time management?  What is one principle that you have found helpful from that reading? 

Chapter 1:  Start with the Word

• Raynor reminds us that “theology shapes practice” p. 3.  Can you think of a way that this has been demonstrated in your own life and ministry as related to time management? (Good theology or bad!)
• Have you ever caught a glimpse of what work might have looked like prior to the Fall?
• What are some examples from the Gospels that came to mind with regard to the author’s assertion that “Jesus was painfully aware that the clock was ticking” p. 13.
• Was there a time in your life where the principle of regular, daily Bible consumption became essential for you?

Challenge: If you are not already doing so, make a plan to read or listen to the Scriptures daily.

Chapter 2:  Let Your Yes Be Yes

• How much does people-pleasing shape your schedule?
• How would you define success in your time management?
• Do you have a system to help close loops?  What is one of the practices that the author explained that might help you bring greater effectiveness to your system?

Challenge: Test the “2-Minute Rule” for at least a week.

Chapter 3:  Dissent from the Kingdom of Noise

• The author spoke about the noise level in his life.  If you had to give yourself a noise level on a scale of 1-10, what would it be?  What would it take to turn that volume down? 
• Is there a practice listed in the book that has helped/will help you turn down the volume?
• In what context do you find yourself most creative?  Most at peace?  What contributes to that? 

Challenge: Choose one of the following options to try for the next month: Turn off all audible notifications on your phone. Take a digital sabbath (from your phone, podcasts, TV, and/or social media) each Sunday.