I finally called it quits on using electronic forms of time management.  I’m going back to the trusty paper planner.

For years I used a planner especially for pastors put out by Christian Ministry Resources.  It’s perfect for what I do.  It has a full year of monthly planning calendars as well as 52 weeks of weekly planning calendars.  It has special resources for pastors, including the church calendar and lectionary readings.

I thought using electronic calendars (on my cell phone synced with my laptop) would be a step up.  Was I ever wrong.

There’s just no way to get a panoramic view of what’s going on, and managing daily tasks is difficult.  I leverage my time by using goals and to-do lists.  Electronic devices don’t do those well.  So, it’s back to paper. 

I’m anxiously awaiting my 2010 planner which I ordered yesterday.  I got it for half price since the year’s about a third over.  Until then I’ll have to make do with my cell phone and laptop.

I’m reminded of the passage of Scripture which says, “Be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time … (Ephesians 5:15-16 NASB).  The King James says, “Redeeming the time ….”

That’s what a good paper calendar does for me.  It helps me make the most of my time.  And the longer I live the more I realize just how little time we all have.

Learn more about Salem Church online: www.salemdarmstadt.org