How to Order Your Day When You are in Ministry

 IS MINISTRY KEEPING YOU TOO BUSY?

Interruptions and schedule changes are a guaranteed part of our lives when we serve or work in ministry. We think we have our day planned when the unexpected happens. Our wonderful plans have been interrupted. So how are we to prioritize spending time with God as well as dealing with the constant changes to our schedule? Give Jesus a say over how your day is ordered.

EVERY DAY BRINGS NEW MINISTRY CHALLENGES.

If I wasn’t aware of the Lord’s leading me through this winding path of ministry, I would throw my hands into the air and give up. I think I would just leave it all and escape. The problem is the projects ahead of me do not go away. Anxiety can quickly take over and cause me more grief if I stay in this emotional state.

I was pulled in many directions as I served as Executive Director of a local Crisis Pregnancy Center. I served on committees, planned fundraising events, participated in Board meetings, trained volunteers, counseled clients looking for help, ordered supplies, cleaned the office, connected with local churches, sent out emails and prayer requests. The list goes on as it does in any ministry. We never seem to have enough money or enough workers.

HOW CAN WE BALANCE OUR TIME IN MINISTRY?

The busy day ahead with unlimited tasks can be daunting. The Lord will help you to prioritize your schedule if you ask Him. Start out your day reading His Word and spending some quiet time in prayer with the Lord is the key to success. He knows what is important and what you should focus on for that very day. When you spend the time to ask the Lord you will be amazed how the day ahead of you will unfold.

Make a list of all the things you need to accomplish, the people who you need to connect with and the places you need to visit. Place the list before the Lord and ask for His strength and wisdom to lead you throughout the day. When you rely on the Lord, He will help you to overcome procrastination which alleviates undo stress. Ask the Lord for patience with those who you are working with as they also have busy lives with never ending challenges. Be flexible. No matter how carefully you plan your day expect interruptions. Many times interruptions can bring answers to difficult problems and allow you to receive a much needed blessing.

WHAT IF ALL MY MINISTRY GOALS AREN’T MET?

When you leave your office make sure you leave the unfinished work behind. It will be waiting for you to make a new list the following day. It’s now time to focus on family, friends and church service. Be joyful. Know that your life is full and you are fortunate.