Stress and Anxiety

The Lord will keep me in perfect peace because my mind is stayed on Him and because I trust in Him. Isaiah 26:3

Introduction

• Life is busy—no doubt about it.
• We juggle responsibilities, expectations, and a never-ending list of tasks.
• But busyness isn’t the enemy—disorganization is.
• A simple to-do list can bring clarity, focus, and peace to your daily life.

Why Life Feels Overwhelming

• We wake up Monday morning already behind.
• Life demands more time than we seem to have.
• We carry stress home—affecting our families and our well-being.
• Technology has made things easier, but also more distracting.
• Jesus said, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few” (Luke 10:2)—we feel that.

A To-Do List Can Change Everything

• Provides clarity—know what must be done and when.
• Reduces stress—frees up your mind from trying to remember everything.
• Prevents missed opportunities—nothing important falls through the cracks.
• Keeps you focused on priorities rather than distractions.

What a Good To-Do List Looks Like
✔ Simple—no over-complication.
✔ Planned—done before the week begins.
✔ Clear—each task is actionable and specific.
✔ Efficient—helps you work smarter, not just harder.
✔ Prioritized—important tasks come first.

How to Build an Effective To-Do List

1. Write It Down
   • A list only works if it’s written.
   • Your memory is not a strategy—put it on paper (or a digital document).
     
     
2. Plan Before the Week Begins
   • Don’t wait until Monday to figure out what needs to be done.
   • Set your weekly plan on Sunday afternoon or Friday before you wrap up your week.
     
     
3. Break It Down By Day
   • Large lists are overwhelming—divide tasks into manageable daily chunks.
   • Instead of staring at 70 tasks, focus on 10 things for today.
     
     
4. Prioritize the Big Tasks First
   • Start your day with the most important tasks, not the easiest ones.
   • Avoid getting bogged down with emails and busywork before tackling the big things.
     
     
5. Update Your List Throughout the Week
   • A to-do list is a living document—adjust as needed.
   • New assignments? Add them. Completed tasks? Cross them off.
     
     

Applying This System to Those You Lead

• Require a weekly to-do list from your team.
• Review their lists and provide feedback.
• Use weekly meetings to check progress.
• Require daily updates to keep things moving forward.
• End each week with a final check-in to assess what got done.
  
  

Time Management Tips to Maximize Your List

1. Don’t plan more than 80% of your day—leave margin for the unexpected.
2. Stack similar tasks together—batch phone calls, emails, or planning sessions.
3. Keep it simple—overcomplicated systems waste time.
4. Delegate whenever possible—not everything needs to be on your plate.
5. Use “anchors” in your week—set times for recurring tasks.
6. Acknowledge the spiritual struggle—time management is stewardship.
7. Keep a positive attitude—you can’t control everything, but you can control your mindset.
8. Don’t make it harder than it has to be—use tools that work, not ones that complicate.

Closing Thoughts

• Life is busy, but that’s not a bad thing—it means we’re engaged in the Great Commission.
• A to-do list is not just a productivity tool—it’s a stewardship tool.
• When we manage our time well, we honor God, bless our families, and lead effectively.
• Start today—make your list, work your plan, and watch how God uses your efforts!