Time is Money pt. 3
In Part 3 of the Time is Money series, Pastor Josh speaks to the exhaustion so many of us feel. What do you do when you’re doing too much?
This message explores how to live a sustainable life—one that protects your soul, restores your margin, and aligns your time with what truly matters. Through the story of Moses in Exodus 18, we’re reminded that being overwhelmed isn’t noble—it’s a warning sign.
Over-Busy Is Over-Rated
Busyness is often mistaken for importance or maturity. But Scripture paints a different picture. Jesus—arguably the busiest, most mission-driven person in history—never rushed. He was frequently interrupted, always present, and deeply rested in His Father’s will.
When our calendars are packed and our souls are thin, it’s not usually because we’re “too needed”—it’s often because we haven’t set boundaries, said no, or let others step in.
Moses thought he was being responsible by handling every dispute himself, but in reality, he was bottlenecking the people and burning himself out. Jethro’s advice wasn’t just practical—it was spiritual wisdom: You can’t do this alone, and you shouldn’t.
Three Signs You’re Living Unsustainably
- You’re Always Tired, Even After RestWhen soul tiredness doesn’t go away after sleep or a holiday, it’s a red flag. This kind of fatigue comes from doing too much of the wrong things—or carrying burdens God never asked you to carry.
- You’re Always the BottleneckIf everything depends on you, you’re not leading—you’re hoarding. Healthy leadership shares the load. When you refuse help, you rob others of the chance to grow.
- You’re Always Distracted or NumbConstant input (from phones, podcasts, tasks) can silence the deeper stirrings of God. We often turn to distraction or overworking when we’re avoiding something in our soul that needs attention.
God’s Solution: Wisdom, Delegation, and Margin
Jethro offers Moses a sustainable pattern: teach the people, empower capable leaders, and only carry what you must. This isn’t just about productivity—it’s about creating margin. Margin is the space between your limits and your load. And without it, you’ll crash.
God doesn’t need us to do everything. He’s called us to do our part—faithfully and in community. That means:
- Learning to say no to good things so you can say yes to the best things
- Creating rest rhythms that restore your soul, not just your energy
- Investing in others, not out of guilt, but so they too can grow and lead
Conclusion: The Goal Is Health, Not Hustle
In this message, Pastor Josh offers a freeing reminder: the goal of life isn’t maximum output—it’s maximum faithfulness. A full schedule doesn’t mean a full heart. And an overflowing to-do list isn’t a sign of maturity—it might be a sign you’ve lost your margin.
If you’re tired, distracted, or burnt out, it may be time to stop and ask: Is what I’m doing actually good? Or just familiar?
God invites us not just to work for Him, but to walk with Him. In step with His pace. In freedom. In rest. In trust.
You don’t have to do everything. But you do have to do what He’s asked. And that… is more than enough.