Introduction:  Have you ever wished for a 30-hour day?

 (Charles E. Hummel, The Tyranny of the Urgent)

  • It is not a matter of time, but of priority.
  • We all have time for what we choose to have time for.
“If you choose what is important you won't deal with as many things that are urgent.” Seth Godin
  • Problem: We can get addicted to the urgent.

Has the feeling of urgency become a tyrant in your life?

A Case Study:  Mary and Martha  (Luke 10:38-42)

  • Martha is so overwhelmed by the urgent, that she misses the important.
  • Why? But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made.  (Luke 10:40)

Have you ever been so consumed by the urgent that you miss the important?

Choosing the Important over the Urgent

1. Name the Important.  (Luke 10:41)

  • The most important thing in my life right now is  [area]
  • What is most important thing I've been distracted from doing?
  • Schedule the important. Create an artificial calendar.

2. Be selective with saying "yes"

  • For most people, the barrier to a fruitful life is not a lack of commitment but over commitment. 
  • Learn when to say “no”  (Mark 1:35-38)

3. Do first what matters most

  • Time with Jesus matters most.  (Matthew 6:33)
  • Before you get involving in serving others — you must allow Jesus Christ to serve you.    

Sitting at his feet:  What does God want me to do?  [area]