What does the Bible say about time management?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that time is God’s gift and stewardship, to be used wisely, humbly, and for His glory rather than squandered on self-centered pursuits. Ephesians 5:15-17 and Colossians 4:5 call believers to walk carefully and make the most of every opportunity, discerning the Lord’s will. Psalm 90:12 asks God to teach us to number our days, while Psalm 39:4-5 reminds us how brief life is. Planning is good, as Luke 14:28 and Proverbs 16:9 show, yet James 4:13-17 warns that every plan must submit to God’s sovereign will. Above all, Matthew 6:33 directs our priorities toward Christ’s kingdom and righteousness.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Ephesians 5:15-17 13 votes
Therefore watch carefully how you walk, not as unwise, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore, don’t be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
- Psalms 90:12 8 votes
So teach us to count our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
- Colossians 4:5 5 votes
Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.
- Matthew 6:33 4 votes
But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well.
- Ecclesiastes 3:8 3 votes
a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.
- Luke 14:28 3 votes
For which of you, desiring to build a tower, doesn’t first sit down and count the cost, to see if he has enough to complete it?
- Proverbs 16:9 3 votes
A man’s heart plans his course, but Yahweh directs his steps.
- James 4:13-17 3 votes
Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow let’s go into this city and spend a year there, trade, and make a profit.” Yet you don’t know what your life will be like tomorrow. For what is your life? For you are a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. For you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will both live, and do this or that.” But now you glory in your boasting. All such boasting is evil. To him therefore who knows to do good and doesn’t do it, to him it is sin.
- Psalms 39:4-5 2 votes
“Yahweh, show me my end, what is the measure of my days. Let me know how frail I am. Behold, you have made my days hand widths. My lifetime is as nothing before you. Surely every man stands as a breath.” Selah.
- John 9:4 2 votes
I must work the works of him who sent me while it is day. The night is coming, when no one can work.
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