Priorities

I believe God gives me enough time each day to complete the things he wants me to accomplish...but I find it difficult determining which items on my to do list are most important to complete.

I can accomplish every part of God's work for me today...if I stay away from the television and apply myself diligently to my tasks.  Sometimes I feel dismayed- a measly twenty four hours is all I have, and part of that is for sleeping, eating, and exercising.  What I wouldn't give for more time! 

I continually remind myself of my goals:
1) I must put God first.
Having my time of prayer, my personal Bible study, and taking the time to be the type of person God wants me to be is essential.
2) I must take care of myself. 
I must take the time to eat well and live a healthy lifestyle.
3) I must address my long term goals. 
Working on my evening classes, completing important paperwork for my induction as a California educator, and taking next steps to improve my chances of being hired full time next year is crucial.
4) I must meet my short term career goals.
I must be ready with my lesson plans, ready with my student behavior plans, and caught up on all school related activities.
5) I must take care of urgent household tasks. 
I must be sure the laundry is done, the apartment is clean, and my appliances and car is in working order. 
6) I want to take care of the little tasks that get pushed off daily.
Since I am on break, I am craving the completion of a million little tasks on my to do list.  They keep pulling me in, since I know if I do not accomplish them on this break, I will likely have to wait until after Christmas to get to these tasks.  I want to do them NOW, but, unfortunately, as they are not urgent, and as they are least important, I need to spend most of my time on other more important projects. 

It is very difficult to hold strong with my priorities.  I usually want to do the easiest items on my 'to do' list first, but then I run out of time and enthusiasm for my more important tasks. 

Dear Heavenly Father,
Please help me to prioritize wisely.  Help me to focus and to put away distractions that prevent me from accomplishing what you would have me do today.  Let me enjoy my fall break, but let me also get much accomplished so that when my break is over I can return to work with a feeling of confidence.  Help me complete all my work with a joyful heart.  Help me rejoice in the blessings you pour out today and laugh often.  Amen. 

Matthew 6:33
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

All that is not eternal is eternally out of date.  -C.S. Lewis