This classic little booklet from Charles Hummel was one of the earliest resources (first published in 1967) to first introduce the distinction between the important and the urgent that later time and/or life management books such MacKenzie's "The Time Trap" and Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" incorporated. But Hummel introduced it in a Christian and Biblical context where God's Will and Word take precedence in determining what's important. This resource is a simple introduction to time management using the following four steps: decide what's important, discover how one's time is now being spent, budget the hours and follow through. Each step is given some exposition. If one already has Hummel's newer book "Freedom from Tyranny of the Urgent," then this booklet isn't necessary since it is essentially incorporated into the book. But for those Christians who have an initial adversity to the whole concept of time management and scheduling and don't see how it is integral to discipleship or produces greater freedom rather than bondage, this booklet may make you reconsider your belief. For those who want more insight into time and life management from a Christian perspective, read Ken Smith's "It's About Time." Hummel is one of many who recommends it.

I don't know how many times I have forsaken the really important things in life for the urgent (such as a phone call, work assignment, etc.) This book is a challenging reminder to never forsake the truly vital things in life (i.e. family, God, relationships) for other items that must be done that day or week. In other words, carpe diem! A must read for anyone seeking real fulfillment and meaning in life.

All people, from kings to paupers, have 24 hours in a day. This book(let) helps the growing Christian make wise choices in regards to his/her use of time by offering motivational and practical insights. A must-read for anyone serious about living life to the fullest, not just existing through time. Every time I read this quick-read, I am challenged. Highly recommended!

Hummel offers a fresh look at the Creation Epic of Genesis 1. While steering a path between the literal and mythological approaches to Genesis, Hummel offers an approach that is both reasonable and faithful to a valid scriptural approach to the emergence of life on earth. If you are a student of "Creation" or sceptical of the typical presentation of biblical origens, you must read this book...

This book is great for someone who is stressed out because they are always so busy dealing with the urgent that they find themself forgetting the important. While many books on time management are great for motivation - this one brings time management tips to you in a practical manner - with questions for reflection and application at the end of each chapter.

There were two sections of this book that I found particularly helpful. One dealt with the difference between being efficient - and being effective. Before reading this, I had never realized that a person could show 100% efficiency in something but never have it be effective in helping anyone! The second section that helped me was a list of 7 tips and ways to say no. One of the most helpful tips was to learn to "go with your gifts" when making the choice between two good things.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn to reclaim their time.

Hummel's "Freedom from Tyranny..." is a wonderful amplification of his booklet "Tyranny of the Urgent." Like its predecessor, the book encourages you to examine your life and realign your priorities by seeking to live a holy life. This book is a beautiful balance of illustrative vignettes, Scripture, and Hummel's thoughts.

The book is very encouraging, uplifting, and peace-inducing.

I've been leading a small group study in which we are slowly digesting the book and attempting, with God's help, to apply it. The group members unanimously love the book. They all feel uplifted and have remarked on Hummel's giftedness in encouraging us rather than making us feel guilty that we haven't mastered the topics yet.

This book is a gift to yourself. I encourage you to read it with an open heart, then give a copy to loved ones.

I've returned to order an additional five. That brings my total to 20 so far.

God bless you.