Daily Digest: Capstone Capsule

“So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” – Psalm 90:12

Scriptures offer ample principles and SKILLS on LIFE MANAGEMENT for IMPACT: “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psa.90:12). This speaks to the Brevity of Life; hence, the need for temporal life to be measured, managed, and maximized. It paints a picture of human life as finite and marked by both toil and swift passage. Verse 12 highlights the need for intentional living in light of limited resources of time, treasures, and strength. To number our days is not just a literal counting of days. It is a prayer for awareness and understanding of life’s limited nature and purposeful living.

Intentional Living involves recognizing the value of each day, seeking wisdom in our choices, and aligning our actions with God’s greater purposes. Three highly practical areas of Life Management with applicable scriptural principles and skills are: Time Management, Task Management, and Stress Management. By applying these principles and cultivating the Skills, Believers in Christ can improve effectiveness, reduce stress, and live more productive, profitable, and purposeful lives.

Time Management: “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 speak of the wise use of time through understanding and aligning with God’s Will. Psalm 90:12 focuses on valuing each day. Proverbs 21:5 highlights the benefits of diligence and proper planning. 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.

Task Management: “Therefore…whatever you do, do all to the Glory of God” (1Cor.1:31). To do everything for His Glory is to prioritize God, His Will and His Kingdom (Mt.6:33). Task management embraces Fruitful Service and Stewardship. Life is a gift from God, and resources must be managed wisely. We are to live to please God: “we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him” (2Cor.5:9). The results: greater responsibility, contentment, and sense of fulfilment in life.

Stress Management: “Be anxious for nothing…and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phi.4:6-7). Navigating stressful situations answers to the practice of prayer, gratitude, and faith in God, thus mitigating anxiety and promoting peace. We’re taught to cast our care upon the Lord for He cares for us (1Pet.5:7). Stress management skills are complemented by virtues of forgiveness, kindness, and compassion (Eph.4:32). Self-control helps to manage emotions, reduce bitterness, promote healthy relationships, and foster supportive environments.

In essence, scriptures offer sound skills for administering and maximizing all aspects of life, including time, resources, and relationships, with purpose and intention. By these, we can experience and enjoy stress-free, meaningful, and impactful lives.