Inhabiting a World Where Space and Time are Premiums

In our present-day, fast-paced, always-connected world, space and time are precious commodities. Our calendars are overpacked and our inboxes overflowing while the demands on our physical and mental space seems ever-increasing. As believers striving to live faithfully, we know we’re called to steward the gifts of time and space wisely.

The Tyranny of the Urgent
Modern life often prioritizes urgency over importance. Whether it’s a ringing phone, a flashing notification, or a coworker needing “just a moment,” we’re bombarded by demands that feel immediate. EVERYTHING seems urgent. It’s easy for us to fill every single moment with activity while losing sight of what truly matters.

Scripture reminds us to pause and reflect:

Psalm 90:12 (CSB)

Teach us to number our days carefully so that we may develop wisdom in our hearts.

Living with intentionality requires discernment. It’s not just about doing more but more about doing what aligns with God’s purposes for our lives.

Clearing the Clutter
Our physical environments often mirror our internal states. Wow. Pause. Take that in a minute. A cluttered desk can reflect a cluttered heart or mind. As the Christmas season winds down and the New Year approaches, perhaps it’s time to take inventory—not only of our belongings but also of our spiritual lives. Are we hoarding cluttered lives?

Jesus modeled simplicity: He had no permanent home during His ministry (Matthew 8:20) and He taught us to focus on treasures in Heaven rather than accumulating earthly wealth (Matthew 6:19-21).

Counter-cultural, I know.

Clearing the clutter in our lives—be it material, emotional, or spiritual—creates room for God to move.

Guarding Sacred Time
Time with God isn’t just another item to check off our to-do lists; it’s the foundation for everything else. In a culture that celebrates busyness, carving out moments for prayer, meditation, and study cuts across the grain of the world’s expectations. Be still? Be quiet? Rest? Yes, these important practices are mocked by our culture of hurry, hurry, more, more.

Jesus regularly withdrew to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16). If the Son of God needed quiet time with the Father, how much more do you and I? Building intentional rhythms into our days—whether it’s morning devotions, a Sabbath rest, or a quiet evening meditation—these practices help anchor us in Him.

Practical Steps for a World Overloaded

1. Assess Your Priorities: Reflect on what truly matters and adjust your commitments accordingly. When my sister-in-law died a few months ago, it caused Terri and I both to reconsider our priorities.
2. Set Boundaries: Learn to say “no” to distractions that drain your energy and time. Fortunately, our People Person at my work has pushed and prodded me to set boundaries. I can say “no.”
3. Create Margin: Allow space in your schedule for rest, creativity, and unexpected opportunities to serve. You are enough.
4. Stay Connected: Seek fellowship with believers who encourage you in faith and accountability. Whatever it looks like, you need people in your life to connect with regularly. My Monday night art class is that for me.

Closing Thoughts
As we inhabit this world where space and time are precious premium resources, we’re reminded that both are gifts from God. Living well doesn’t mean doing more; it means being present, purposeful, and open to His leading.

May we be faithful stewards of the moments and spaces entrusted to us, using them to glorify the One who gives us life.

How are you stewarding your space and time today? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you.

Until next time…

Grace and Peace,

Rainer Bantau—The Devotional Guy™