I have a to-do list app that I like to use. It is easy to use and keeps track of all the stuff I need to do, both big and small. From folding the laundry to figuring out a new plan for medical insurance now that we’re retired.

The problem is that my list keeps growing instead of shrinking. Sometimes, at the end of the day, I see I haven’t completed anything listed there. So I will add the things that I actually did accomplish just so I can check something off. I didn’t fold the laundry or make any progress with the insurance, but I did fix the printer after it broke and fill in the hole the dog dug in the yard. Check!

Today, I was extremely frustrated that I wasn’t making any headway in several pressing matters on my list. Other issues kept popping up to clamor for attention. (This seems to happen often. Which is why my list keeps growing instead of shrinking.)

But then I wrested myself away to do my Bible study. I found a comfortable, shady spot on my patio. I watched the hummingbirds swoop and chirp and dance around some brightly blooming skyflowers. Then I read today’s verse.

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭21,‬ ‭CSB)‬‬

After some contemplation, I realized I had been treasuring my to-do list more than God’s to-do list. My heart is stressed and frustrated because the things of this world are stressful and frustrating. They always will be. I could check off the last thing on my list and still be unsatisfied.

God’s to-do list is fulfilling and truly worthy of my full attention. If I prioritize His list, everything else that matters will fall into its rightful place.

God’s list includes things like spending time with Him each day. Reading His word, listening for His voice. Confessing, repenting, rejoicing, worshipping, appreciating His many blessings and His creation. It also includes things like actively and creatively finding ways to love people and to share my resources of time, energy, and money. When I check these things off my to-do list each day, my life will be full and so much less stressful.

What about those bills, you say? They do need to be paid. They are on my to-do list.

Do you trust God? By all means pay your bills, but if your excuse to not spend time with God is about those bills, they can wait. God will take care of you when you prioritize Him. He asks you to test Him in this. (Malachi 3:10)

And if it’s something else (maybe not a to-do list but social media, TV, a club, even a church group) that’s hogging all your time, energy, and attention, perhaps it’s time to put that away while you turn your eyes upon Jesus.

Dear God, thank you for releasing me from the self-imposed pressure of my to-do list. Teach me how to prioritize you and your will instead. I trust you to care for me when I care about others’ needs. Remind me to stop and enjoy you every day.