Are you always on time?

I have a confession to make.
I am not always on time.

Yes, I said it. My husband, Vandy, would probably smile while reading this because he has spent years gently (and sometimes not so gently) reminding me about the importance of punctuality.

One of the wonderful traits I admire and sometimes find challenging about him is his deep respect for time. He values it so much that we have had our share of small arguments over it. He has this principle: “It is better to wait than let people wait for you.”

At first, I thought that was just his personality, but over the years I’ve realized it’s more than that. For him, being on time is about showing respect, valuing people, and honoring them by being fully present when you say you will.

The Gift of Being On Time

When you are on time, you are silently telling someone, “You matter to me. Your time matters to me. I came prepared to meet you, and I honor your presence.”

Being punctual also says something about your character. And whether we like it or not, for those of us who follow Christ, we are representing Him everywhere we go.

Vandy doesn’t just show up on time he prepares ahead. If he has a doctor’s appointment, he checks the GPS route and calculates exactly how long it will take to get there. If he’s meeting pastors, attending Sunday worship, or preparing a sermon, he starts early. Sometimes he’s even a month ahead with his sermon notes and lesson outlines.

When it comes to conferences, mentorships, or even our date nights, he always makes sure we’re not rushing. He even pays our utility bills on time. I truly feel blessed to have a husband like him.

What amazes me is that this has been his way of life even before he met Christ. And when he came to know the Lord, it only deepened his discipline. His commitment to time became a way to reflect God’s order and faithfulness.

Learning from Others Who Value Time

Both of us deeply admire the Japanese culture, where punctuality is seen as a form of respect. We used to work with a Japanese missionary named Ma’am Grace, who was never late to anything. She once told us, “God is always on time. We should also treat time as holy.” 

That stuck with me. Time is not something we own it is something entrusted to us by God. And how we use it reveals much about our values.

To be honest, I can count on one hand the times Vandy has been late, and almost every time, it’s been because of me. Wives and moms, you know what I mean there’s always something we need to do before leaving the house. And sometimes, we forget something and have to go back.

But I’ve realized this can’t be an excuse. Yes, life is busy, but honoring time is also honoring the people we meet and the God we represent. By God’s grace, I’m improving.

How It’s Changed Me

As a university lecturer, I’ve been deeply influenced by Vandy’s example. I now make it a point to arrive at least ten minutes before my class starts. I’m also very clear about deadlines. I give project briefings early, and I hold my students accountable to submit on time.

Once, a student commented on an evaluation form, “Mrs. Rolitess is always prompt and never late to class.” That made me smile. It wasn’t just about being “on time” it was about showing them that I value them and their learning.

Representing God Well in the Marketplace

Imagine if believers consistently reflected God’s excellence in something as simple as punctuality. Wouldn’t that speak loudly in our workplaces, schools, and communities?

When we respect time, we show discipline, reliability, and integrity qualities that can open doors for conversations about faith. People notice, and sometimes they become curious. That’s when we have an opportunity to share why we live the way we do.

Jesus told us in Matthew 5 that we are the light of the world. Light is visible. Light stands out. Our lives should be so filled with the love and truth of Christ that people cannot help but notice.

Shining the Light of Jesus

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14)

Our light comes from the Gospel the good news that Jesus gave His life for us and offers us forgiveness and eternal life. This truth changes everything.

But Jesus also says people will recognize our light by our good works. That means that how we live how we treat people, how we keep our word, how we value time can reflect His character.

In Cambodia, in your workplace, in your school, or in your own home, there are dark places that need light. Sometimes, your consistency, kindness, or faithfulness may be the first “Gospel message” people notice before they ever hear you speak about Jesus.

God’s Perfect Timing

The Bible is filled with examples of God being “on time.”

• He provided manna for Israel every single morning never late, never early, always just enough (Exodus 16).

• Jesus arrived at Lazarus’ tomb after four days, which seemed late to everyone, but it was exactly the right moment for God’s glory to be revealed (John 11).

• At just the right time, Christ died for the ungodly (Romans 5:6).

God’s timing is never rushed, never delayed. It is perfect. And as His children, we are called to reflect that character in how we manage our own time.

Five Reflections and Practical Ways to Live This Out

Here are five ways we can live out this calling, with short prayers and reflection questions for each.

1. Value People by Valuing Their Time

When we show up on time, we send a clear message: You are important to me.

Prayer: Lord, help me see people the way You see them and honor them by respecting their time.

Reflection Question: This week, how can I show someone they matter by being on time?

2. Prepare Ahead

Whether it’s a meeting, class, or ministry, preparation prevents unnecessary stress and shows excellence.

Prayer: Father, give me wisdom to plan well so I can honor You in my commitments.

Reflection Question: What can I prepare for earlier so I’m not rushing at the last minute?

3. Let Punctuality Be Part of Your Witness

People notice consistency. Let your discipline point them to Christ.

Prayer: Jesus, let my daily habits reflect Your faithfulness so that others see You in me.

Reflection Question: In what areas of my life could greater consistency reflect God’s character?

4. See Time as a Gift from God

Every moment is given by Him and should be used wisely.

Prayer: Lord, teach me to number my days so I may gain a heart of wisdom (Psalm 90:12).

Reflection Question: How am I spending my time in ways that honor God?

5. Shine in the Small Things

Sometimes the “light” we shine isn’t in big actions but in small acts of faithfulness.

Prayer: Father, use even my smallest acts to point others to Your love and truth.

Reflection Question: What small habit can I change this week to better represent Christ?

Encouragement

Punctuality may seem like a small thing, but in God’s Kingdom, small things matter. It’s in the quiet faithfulness of showing up on time, honoring commitments, and valuing people that the light of Jesus shines brightest.

In a world where many are too busy, too distracted, or too self-focused, being someone who values time is countercultural and it speaks volumes.

So whether you are in Cambodia, the Philippines, or anywhere else God has placed you, remember that you carry His light. Let it shine not just in your words, but in the way you live, the way you keep your promises, and the way you use your time.

Because when you shine for Jesus, you help light the way for someone else to find Him.