Queen of the Castle ~ Week 7

Week 7 ~ It's OK to Say No:
Managing Our Time as Homemakers

The first thing to remember in time management is that you can't do everything.

Next is having some tools such as calendars, planners, etc. to help you keep track of your tasks.

But mainly you must decide what is important in your life and don't over pack your schedule.  This way you won't neglect the important things in your life to fulfill other people's priorities.

Time is the coin of your life.  It is the only coin you have, and only you can determine how it will be spent.  Be careful lest you let other people spend it for you.  Carl Sandburg

This might mean paring down your list of activities so you can better focus on the few where God is directing your attention.

Then, learn to say "no".  Saying "no" to others is one of the hardest things to do.  We might even have to say no things that we actually really want to do but if it doesn't fit into our priorities and it would take time from something more important, we have to make the best decision for our balance in life.

LBW suggests that when an opportunity or invitation presents itself (especially over the phone) to give yourself some time to think about it before committing.  After weighing your options, you can then make a decision on whether the activity is important enough to be a priority over other things in your life.

The example of Martha and Mary from Luke 10 is given as an example.  I sometimes feel bad for Martha.  She was stuck in a hard place, but listening to Jesus was far more important than making the meal. 

It can sometimes be confusing as to what requires our attention.  It takes careful consideration in setting our weekly schedules and activities.

Remember:  You can't do everthing.

"Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil.  So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is."  Ephesians 5:1-17

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