How do I find time for God when my schedule is completely full?
- Dr. Layne McDonald
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
You do not "find" time for God in a packed schedule; you choose to prioritize Him within the time you already have by integrating spiritual anchors into your existing routines and reclaiming small pockets of your day.
If you feel like your life is a non-stop treadmill of demands, you aren't alone, but you are also not stuck. Finding time for God isn't about adding another "to-do" to an overflowing list; it is about shifting your perspective from performing for God to living with Him. By identifying "hidden" time in your commute, chores, and transitions, you can maintain a deep connection with Christ without needing a four-hour retreat every morning.
The Myth of "Finding" Time vs. "Making" Space
We often treat time with God like we treat a trip to the gym, something we’ll do "when things quiet down." But for most of us, life doesn't quiet down. The truth is, we don't find time for anything we value; we make it.
Jesus lived a life of incredible demand. He was constantly surrounded by crowds, the sick, and the skeptical. Yet, Luke 5:16 tells us that Jesus "often withdrew to lonely places and prayed." He didn't wait for a gap in His schedule; He created one. If the Son of God prioritized stillness amidst the noise, we must realize that our busyness isn't an excuse, it’s the reason we need Him more.
If you are struggling with a sense of distance, you might find my guide on why God feels far away helpful for closing that gap.
Practice of the Presence: God in the Mundane
One of the greatest shifts you can make is moving from a "Quiet Time" mindset to a "Presence" mindset. Brother Lawrence, a 17th-century monk, famously wrote about "The Practice of the Presence of God." He didn't find God only in the cathedral; he found God while washing dishes in the kitchen.
You can do the same. You don't need a cathedral or a mountain top. You can talk to God:
While you are folding laundry.
While you are answering emails (offer a 5-second prayer for the person on the other end).
While you are stuck in traffic.
Biblically, this aligns with Deuteronomy 6:7, which encourages us to talk about God’s word when we sit, walk, lie down, and rise. God wants to be the atmosphere of your life, not just a line item on your calendar.
Spiritual Anchors: The Power of 10 Minutes
If you can’t give God an hour, give Him ten minutes. Consistency is more transformative than intensity. Think of these as "spiritual anchors" that hold your soul steady throughout the day.
Try this simple 7-10 Minute Rhythm:
Minute 1-2: Silence. Sit still. Breathe. Acknowledge that God is with you.
Minute 3-7: Scripture. Read one chapter or even just five verses. Don't worry about "finishing" a book; focus on hearing one truth.
Minute 8-10: Response. Pray back what you read. Ask for strength for the specific tasks on your schedule today.
Starting small is the key to building a sustainable habit. For more on building a solid foundation, check out the roadmap in my Christian Discipleship 101 resources.
Redeeming the "In-Between" Moments
We all have "margin" we don't realize we have. Most of us fill our in-between moments, waiting in line, sitting in the car, walking to the office, by scrolling through social media or checking the news. This is "junk food" for the soul that leaves us feeling more depleted.
Instead, "redeem the time" (Ephesians 5:16):
Audio Bible: Listen to the Word while you commute.
Worship: Let a song set the tone for your heart while you get ready in the morning.
The "Breath Prayer": Use short, one-sentence prayers throughout the day. "Lord, give me Your peace," or "Jesus, help me see this person through Your eyes."
By reclaiming these 5-minute windows, you’ll find that you’ve spent 30-40 minutes with God by the end of the day without ever having to "sit down."
The Theology of Saying "No" and Sabbath
Sometimes, the reason we have no time for God is that we are trying to be God. We take on every responsibility, say yes to every request, and carry every burden as if the world depends on us.
True spiritual health requires the courage to say "no." This is the heart of the Sabbath. Sabbath isn't just a day off; it’s a declaration that God is the one running the world, not us. If you are perpetually too busy for God, you are busier than God intended you to be.
Ask yourself: Is my schedule full of things God asked me to do, or things I’m doing to feel significant? If you find that your busyness is tied to internal pressure, you may find clarity in the architecture of fear and anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay if I don't do my devotions in the morning?
Absolutely. While many find mornings best to "set the compass," God is not a morning person only. If you are a night owl or have a mid-day break that is more quiet, give Him your best time, whatever time that is.
What if I feel guilty when I miss a day?
Guilt is a poor motivator for a relationship. If you miss a day, don't run away from God; run to Him. Talk to Him about your day. Grace is the foundation of our walk with Christ, not perfect attendance.
How do I stay focused when I'm tired?
Read aloud or write down your prayers. Physical engagement helps keep the mind from wandering when the body is exhausted.
Can I count listening to a podcast as time with God?
Podcasts and teaching are great supplements, but they aren't a substitute for personal interaction with God and His Word. Use them to stir your heart, but make sure you also have moments of direct conversation with Him.
What if I don't know where to start reading?
Start with the Gospel of John or the Psalms. They are designed to speak directly to the human heart and reveal the character of Jesus.
One Clear Next Step: Take a look at your calendar for the next 24 hours. Identify one 10-minute window that you usually spend scrolling or waiting, and "altar" that time to God. If you need a practical guide to help you structure this, dive into the Peace of the Presence and start reclaiming your soul today.
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