Time speaks.

Long before we say a word, our choices reveal what we value. Where we arrive early, we show honour. Where we rush in late, we quietly confess that something else came first, effectively sowing disrespect and dishonour.

Punctuality has always been an important part of my character. I was taught early that people’s time is valuable, and that honouring someone includes honouring their time. Respect is not only spoken, but it is also demonstrated. How we arrive says as much as what we say.

I once had a pastor who used to say,

That phrase stayed with me, not as pressure, but as perspective. It was a reminder that readiness matters, that presence deserves preparation, and that honour begins before the moment itself.

If we can be on time for work, we can be on time for worship.

Every weekday, many of us rise early, prepare carefully, and structure our mornings with intention. We do this out of responsibility, discipline, and respect for authority. We understand that punctuality communicates reliability and honour.

How much more, then, should we prepare our hearts and our time when we come before the Lord?🤔

Worship is not an interruption to our schedule. It is the reason our lives have meaning. It is the sacred meeting place where heaven touches earth, where weary hearts are lifted, and where God is enthroned among His people.

Being on time for worship is not about legalism or perfection. It is about honour.

Honour says, “You matter.”

Honour says, “I prepared for You.”

Honour says, “You are worthy of my first and best.”

When we come early, we come prepared.

When we come prepared, we worship more freely.

When we worship more freely, God is glorified.

The Kingdom of God is a culture of kindness, courtesy, respect, and honour. Our timing is part of our testimony. It teaches our children, encourages our leaders, and reflects the posture of our hearts before God.

Let us give Him not our leftover moments, but our intentional ones. Not our rushed arrival, but our ready hearts. Not what remains, but what we have purposefully set apart.

May our gladness be seen not only in our singing, but in our preparation.

💡Reflection:

• What does my use of time reveal about what I truly value 🤔

• Where might God be inviting me to bring greater honour and intentionality 🤔

• How does my example shape the faith culture of those around me 🤔

🎺Affirmation:

I honour God with my time, my presence, and my preparation. My life reflects reverence, gratitude, and love.

🙌 Prayer:

Father God, thank You for the gift of time and the privilege of meeting with You. Teach me to order my days with wisdom and honour. Help me to prepare my heart, not rush Your presence, and to give You my best, not what is left over. May my life quietly testify to Your worth and Your goodness.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.