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What If God Wrote Your To-Do List?: 52 Ways to Make the Most of Every Day
What is God Asking You "To-Do" Today? When you talk to God about His plans for you, do you tend to focus on the far-off future? Big-picture thinking is great, but don't miss out on what the Lord has in store for you today. These 52 easy tasks will help you embrace opportunities to grow closer to God, reach out to others, and take better care of yourself. This is a to-do list for your soul. Read a Psalm, talk to a neighbor, or right a wrong. These are just a few examples of the simple activities that will enrich your everyday life. God is calling you to make the most of each day and live life to the fullest!
176 pages, Paperback
Published February 6, 2018
124 people are currently reading
504 people want to read
About the author
Jay Payleitner
60 books32 followersJay Payleitner spent a decade in major market advertising. Learning how people think and doing some fun work. Including creating TV spots for Midway Airlines, Kroger, and Corona Beer. And heading up the creative team that named "SunChips."
But God called him into Christian media. And he became an almost-too-busy freelance producer. For more than a decade, Jay scripted and produced Josh McDowell Radio, Today's Father, Jesus Freaks Radio with TobyMac and Michael Tait, Project Angel Tree with Chuck Colson, and thousands of hours of radio that aired across the country and beyond.
Jay is a long-time affiliate with the National Center for Fathering and nationally-known motivational speaker for Iron Sharpens Iron, marriage conferences, men's retreats, women's events, writers' conferences, and weekend services.
Jay has sold more than half million books including the bestselling 52 Things Kids Need from a Dad and What If God Wrote Your Bucket List? His latest -- and perhaps most important release -- is The Jesus Dare.
This June, Waterbrook/Multnomah is releasing the surprising book, The Prayer of Agur.
Jay's books have been translated into French, German, Spanish, Italian, Afrikaans, Indonesian, Slovenian, Polish, and Russian.
He has been a guest multiple times on The Harvest Show, 100 Huntley Street, Moody Radio, Building Relationships with Gary Chapman, Cornerstone TV, and Focus on the Family.
Jay and his high school sweetheart, Rita, live in the Chicago area where they’ve raised five great kids, loved on ten foster babies, and are cherishing grandparenthood.
But God called him into Christian media. And he became an almost-too-busy freelance producer. For more than a decade, Jay scripted and produced Josh McDowell Radio, Today's Father, Jesus Freaks Radio with TobyMac and Michael Tait, Project Angel Tree with Chuck Colson, and thousands of hours of radio that aired across the country and beyond.
Jay is a long-time affiliate with the National Center for Fathering and nationally-known motivational speaker for Iron Sharpens Iron, marriage conferences, men's retreats, women's events, writers' conferences, and weekend services.
Jay has sold more than half million books including the bestselling 52 Things Kids Need from a Dad and What If God Wrote Your Bucket List? His latest -- and perhaps most important release -- is The Jesus Dare.
This June, Waterbrook/Multnomah is releasing the surprising book, The Prayer of Agur.
Jay's books have been translated into French, German, Spanish, Italian, Afrikaans, Indonesian, Slovenian, Polish, and Russian.
He has been a guest multiple times on The Harvest Show, 100 Huntley Street, Moody Radio, Building Relationships with Gary Chapman, Cornerstone TV, and Focus on the Family.
Jay and his high school sweetheart, Rita, live in the Chicago area where they’ve raised five great kids, loved on ten foster babies, and are cherishing grandparenthood.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 16, 2018
I went into this book with little to no expectations. I have read Christian books that looked promising, but were completely off the wall, so I try to not expect great things. This was the little book that not only could, it did almost knock my socks off. It was an incredibly pleasant surprise.
I like how there were 52 things on the to-do list, one for each week of the year. After reading it through in a few sittings, I determined that I wanted 1) the "real book" format so I could page through it easily and 2) I wanted to read it and implement each thing on the list, but all at once would be too much. I am getting the "real book" format and once I receive it, will do each item on the list, but adding them one a week. It's hard to start a lot of things at once, so I figure I will try to do the first thing for a week, then add the second thing the next week, then after doing both for the second week, add the third and so on. Not sure how it will go, but this book has inspired me to try.
The eBook was good, but not my preferred format. I highly recommend the "real book" to the eBook, BUT it is a very good book, so I wouldn't say avoid the one if you can't get the other. I would say get it and read it and use it as it speaks to you.
This is a 4.5 book, rounded up because I am buying a hard copy of it and am excited for it to come in. We don't have it at my store, so I had to order it. There is something nice about anticipating the receipt of a good book, isn't there? Kind of like a birthday gift not yet opened. That's how I feel about this book. HIGHLY recommended. Even if you aren't into the Christian religion, there is a lot of good advice in here. Yes, it is Biblically backed, so if the Bible isn't your jam, this may not be a great fit for you. It worked for me though and I am very glad that I read it. I am looking forward to sharing it with others!
My thanks to NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
I like how there were 52 things on the to-do list, one for each week of the year. After reading it through in a few sittings, I determined that I wanted 1) the "real book" format so I could page through it easily and 2) I wanted to read it and implement each thing on the list, but all at once would be too much. I am getting the "real book" format and once I receive it, will do each item on the list, but adding them one a week. It's hard to start a lot of things at once, so I figure I will try to do the first thing for a week, then add the second thing the next week, then after doing both for the second week, add the third and so on. Not sure how it will go, but this book has inspired me to try.
The eBook was good, but not my preferred format. I highly recommend the "real book" to the eBook, BUT it is a very good book, so I wouldn't say avoid the one if you can't get the other. I would say get it and read it and use it as it speaks to you.
This is a 4.5 book, rounded up because I am buying a hard copy of it and am excited for it to come in. We don't have it at my store, so I had to order it. There is something nice about anticipating the receipt of a good book, isn't there? Kind of like a birthday gift not yet opened. That's how I feel about this book. HIGHLY recommended. Even if you aren't into the Christian religion, there is a lot of good advice in here. Yes, it is Biblically backed, so if the Bible isn't your jam, this may not be a great fit for you. It worked for me though and I am very glad that I read it. I am looking forward to sharing it with others!
My thanks to NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
November 21, 2021
At first, I really liked the simple reminders to do the obvious (you know, those things we know and rarely do?). I found it refreshing to have someone remind me that making the bed has value, break big projects into chunks rather than avoid them, take a moment to consider what you're about to post before you post it, and YES... "read something longer than a tweet."
But about the middle of the book, I either lost interest, or the practice of remembering the simple things had already become ingrained. Maybe that means the book did its job, or maybe it means the second half wasn't something I needed reminding of. I suspect it's a combination of those and that I needed the others most.
Recommended if you need a life jumpstart--just something to get inertia moving instead of "at rest." Not recommended if reading "the obvious" annoys you.
But about the middle of the book, I either lost interest, or the practice of remembering the simple things had already become ingrained. Maybe that means the book did its job, or maybe it means the second half wasn't something I needed reminding of. I suspect it's a combination of those and that I needed the others most.
Recommended if you need a life jumpstart--just something to get inertia moving instead of "at rest." Not recommended if reading "the obvious" annoys you.
January 22, 2018
This was a great way to kick off my new year. I liked the encouraging suggestions of the author.
I was glad to start the new year of 2018 with this book although this could be a bit intimidating. We get so busy in our worldly lives that we may well forget to set our priorities with God’s plan in mind rather than our own.
The author sets out 52 Godly to-do items supported by scripture and example. The ‘chapter’ titles are not always directly what the author will suggest as he uses twists in the topics – keeping it interesting. The tasks are not surprising or earth shaking but rather down to earth reminders of the things a Christ Follower should be doing.
This is set out in 52 sections which would indicate that it is good to read and focus on one To-Do item every week for a year. I read the whole book in one week but plan to go back to it at the beginning of each week to see if I am doing the items suggested.
It is easy to read, inspiring uplifting and encouraging. I recommend this as a nice guide to help anyone who wants a closer relationship with God and a truer Christian walk in our earthly journey.
I received this title through NetGalley. My rating is 4.5.
I was glad to start the new year of 2018 with this book although this could be a bit intimidating. We get so busy in our worldly lives that we may well forget to set our priorities with God’s plan in mind rather than our own.
The author sets out 52 Godly to-do items supported by scripture and example. The ‘chapter’ titles are not always directly what the author will suggest as he uses twists in the topics – keeping it interesting. The tasks are not surprising or earth shaking but rather down to earth reminders of the things a Christ Follower should be doing.
This is set out in 52 sections which would indicate that it is good to read and focus on one To-Do item every week for a year. I read the whole book in one week but plan to go back to it at the beginning of each week to see if I am doing the items suggested.
It is easy to read, inspiring uplifting and encouraging. I recommend this as a nice guide to help anyone who wants a closer relationship with God and a truer Christian walk in our earthly journey.
I received this title through NetGalley. My rating is 4.5.
November 30, 2017
The title of this book freaked me out because as a Christian, I struggle with my faith and imperfections and the thought of God writing my to-do list scared me. Yes, well, he kind of did so with Moses in preparation for the Exodus. He also did the same with the prophets but coming from that historical background you'd be freaked out too.
However, this was a great companion, yes, it made me consider the little things that I could do to contribute to leading a more fulfilled life. In this age of digital distraction the greatest point for me was to 'check my browsing history,' and it's been a much needed insight.
I believe readers would find this book both positive and practical in their daily lives. There are 52 things and you can do them each week or day depending on what suits you. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
However, this was a great companion, yes, it made me consider the little things that I could do to contribute to leading a more fulfilled life. In this age of digital distraction the greatest point for me was to 'check my browsing history,' and it's been a much needed insight.
I believe readers would find this book both positive and practical in their daily lives. There are 52 things and you can do them each week or day depending on what suits you. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
June 24, 2018
I caught a glimpse of this at a grocery store and gave it a browse before eventually buying it a few days later. I'm really glad I did.
In short 2-4 page thematic chapters, Payleitner lays out a solid list of ways in which I can practice my faith in a variety of practical and spiritually nurturing ways. He has a gentle wit, an easy style, and compelling, Scripturally-based insights, while summing up each chapter with succinctness and clarity. Topics focus on simple, daily changes we can make, such as extending our faith, reappraising aspects of our faith, forgiving ourselves, thanking our parents, reflecting on our choices, simplifying our lives, and walking the walk of a Christian. It's heartwarming and strengthens my newly re-discovered faith. In short, this was a perfect book to read as I'm getting back to God, a choice that has been revelatory to me, and continues to be so.
It's the ideal book to read a few chapters at a time and allow the wisdom and inspiration to take root. I read it over three weeks because I would come back to it periodically and devour five-to-ten chapters at a sitting, but it could easily be read in a day or two. Additionally, I've dog-eared many pages that struck me with added power. This is a book I'll likely be revisiting.
Just for clarity - there are some things he writes that I'm not in agreement with or felt were unnecessary. At one point, he makes a snarky comment about progressives and name drops his support of The Heritage Foundation. Politics are personal, but such things don't really have a purpose in this book. More problematically, he makes a statement in a chapter near the end, one dealing with getting started and not putting off for tomorrow, that is dangerous. He states that couples waiting to have children until they're ready should just go ahead and have a child anyway. That's just foolish. Children are NOT a spur-of-the-moment decision. Whether he intended that sentiment or not, that's how it reads. Just because he was fortunate enough to start having children early and all turned out well is not sufficient enough evidence that it's a solid bit of advice to toss around casually. This may be a reflection of his pro-life views, but the nonsense that having children is anything less than a life-changing decision is dangerous. Oddly enough, in another chapter, he cautions about impulse decisions, listing getting a dog as one. This incongruity is troubling.
That disclaimer aside, I still recommend this book as a good place for people to start making their lives more meaningful.
In short 2-4 page thematic chapters, Payleitner lays out a solid list of ways in which I can practice my faith in a variety of practical and spiritually nurturing ways. He has a gentle wit, an easy style, and compelling, Scripturally-based insights, while summing up each chapter with succinctness and clarity. Topics focus on simple, daily changes we can make, such as extending our faith, reappraising aspects of our faith, forgiving ourselves, thanking our parents, reflecting on our choices, simplifying our lives, and walking the walk of a Christian. It's heartwarming and strengthens my newly re-discovered faith. In short, this was a perfect book to read as I'm getting back to God, a choice that has been revelatory to me, and continues to be so.
It's the ideal book to read a few chapters at a time and allow the wisdom and inspiration to take root. I read it over three weeks because I would come back to it periodically and devour five-to-ten chapters at a sitting, but it could easily be read in a day or two. Additionally, I've dog-eared many pages that struck me with added power. This is a book I'll likely be revisiting.
Just for clarity - there are some things he writes that I'm not in agreement with or felt were unnecessary. At one point, he makes a snarky comment about progressives and name drops his support of The Heritage Foundation. Politics are personal, but such things don't really have a purpose in this book. More problematically, he makes a statement in a chapter near the end, one dealing with getting started and not putting off for tomorrow, that is dangerous. He states that couples waiting to have children until they're ready should just go ahead and have a child anyway. That's just foolish. Children are NOT a spur-of-the-moment decision. Whether he intended that sentiment or not, that's how it reads. Just because he was fortunate enough to start having children early and all turned out well is not sufficient enough evidence that it's a solid bit of advice to toss around casually. This may be a reflection of his pro-life views, but the nonsense that having children is anything less than a life-changing decision is dangerous. Oddly enough, in another chapter, he cautions about impulse decisions, listing getting a dog as one. This incongruity is troubling.
That disclaimer aside, I still recommend this book as a good place for people to start making their lives more meaningful.
March 18, 2023
I read a chapter a day and this book changed my life. I’ve done 52 and passed it on.
April 21, 2020
I hated this book. I very rarely hate a book since there is normally some ounce of information I can get out of a book, but this is one of the few exceptions to that rule. It has a "my way or the highway" feel to it that makes the one reading feel as if they are reading the works of a hypocrite. The author gives the reader the feeling that one must make themselves worthy of God's sacrifice, and the things you must do to become worthy are for the most part not even mentioned in the Bible. The book gave me the feeling I was reading a work of the Pharisees or Sadducees in the Bible, who saw themselves as the next thing to God and believed everyone else needed to follow their set path. There are a few moments in the midst of the endless droning that gives one hope that things might pick up and it is actually going to explore the Word of God, but then all hope for the book is lost as the droning continues for 52 seemingly endless chapters of pure torture. This is the most legalistic book I have ever read and I hated it. From a different perspective at a different point in my life, I guess it is somehow possible, I might get some token of good out of it, but I really doubt that will happen. So, for the time being, there is no way I can give this book a bad enough rating. Never give this book to anyone you care about who does not have a very firm understanding of the actual Word of God.
December 30, 2021
4.5 stars.
We all have different to-do lists depending on our careers and where we want to spend our daily time. Jay Payleitner’s What If God Wrote Your To-Do List challenges the reader to think outside the box about what is on their list. Although you have your list of things to be done daily, God also has a perfect, often-neglected to-do list for you – starting with making your bed each morning. I truly liked the simplicity of this book; it is easy to read and pointed out many things I often do not do but would make a huge difference in my life. I recommend this book, and it will encourage you to act on your goals sooner rather than later. If you are someone who needs a little nudge to act or has been struggling with self-motivation, I totally recommend this one.
It had been so long since I read a book, so I wanted to start with an easy one to get my momentum going, and this was a perfect pick. If you’re going to get the best out of it, I suggest you do not read the whole book in one sitting or two weeks. Read one chapter, think about it, and actually practice what it says for some time before going to the next. You can’t introduce 52 new things in your life at once, after all.
We all have different to-do lists depending on our careers and where we want to spend our daily time. Jay Payleitner’s What If God Wrote Your To-Do List challenges the reader to think outside the box about what is on their list. Although you have your list of things to be done daily, God also has a perfect, often-neglected to-do list for you – starting with making your bed each morning. I truly liked the simplicity of this book; it is easy to read and pointed out many things I often do not do but would make a huge difference in my life. I recommend this book, and it will encourage you to act on your goals sooner rather than later. If you are someone who needs a little nudge to act or has been struggling with self-motivation, I totally recommend this one.
It had been so long since I read a book, so I wanted to start with an easy one to get my momentum going, and this was a perfect pick. If you’re going to get the best out of it, I suggest you do not read the whole book in one sitting or two weeks. Read one chapter, think about it, and actually practice what it says for some time before going to the next. You can’t introduce 52 new things in your life at once, after all.
December 29, 2019
I had read some secular books recently on how to make to-do lists and how to reach goals by examining what is important to me. When I saw this title I wanted to take a look at a Christian treatment of the same kinds of things. This book is NOT how to get your day-to-day life in order. Rather, it offers key attitudes that as a Christian we need to develop.
My favorite chapter was on the echo chamber. Too often we like to be around those who think the same as we do, echoing our own thoughts, but he encourages us to welcome those who think differently than so that we can become more thoughtful and grow in our own understanding of issues. Good advice.
I am not sure how this book is to be read. (It could have been spelled out somewhere but I didn't read it.) The title suggests maybe a once-a-week look at certain attitudes, but since some of the "to-dos" were so basic I kept reading to see what the next one was, and the next. In that sense the book may have been too long. I mean 52 attitude checks can get overwhelming if you are trying to read something straight through, but too "superficial" if you are looking for something to chew on for a while.
My favorite chapter was on the echo chamber. Too often we like to be around those who think the same as we do, echoing our own thoughts, but he encourages us to welcome those who think differently than so that we can become more thoughtful and grow in our own understanding of issues. Good advice.
I am not sure how this book is to be read. (It could have been spelled out somewhere but I didn't read it.) The title suggests maybe a once-a-week look at certain attitudes, but since some of the "to-dos" were so basic I kept reading to see what the next one was, and the next. In that sense the book may have been too long. I mean 52 attitude checks can get overwhelming if you are trying to read something straight through, but too "superficial" if you are looking for something to chew on for a while.
January 28, 2025
I don't disagree with a lot of the advice that is given here. My frustration is there is very little biblical focus here. It's almost always an after thought. And if you're going to write a book based on what "God would have you do", then it should be 90% based on the Bible. Otherwise, that would be blasphemy.
January 19, 2026
I liked this book of simple reminders for how to include God in your day or change your day to little but obvious ways. At about to-do number 18 I started to lose interest. It was hard to keep going for all 52 things on the list. I did finish the book but feel that it would be better read as one chapter a week instead of in a couple sittings.
July 8, 2018
What a lovely book, full of everyday wisdom and easily implementable ideas for any Christian no matter how mature in their faith. Good food for thought on everything from putting others first to doing nothing... and simply listening to God tell us what to do. I really enjoyed this book.
December 15, 2021
I really enjoyed this book and will probably refer to it often. Sometimes books that 52 ways are meant to be read 1 chapter a week for a whole year- that way you focus on that one chapter for the whole week. I might revisit this book and read it that way.
March 5, 2019
Loved this book that I found in Acme. Easy read and so insightful.
January 25, 2021
This is one of the books to keep and review. Glad it confirmed things I already do and reinforced good habits. Nice biblical insights!
February 27, 2022
This was a fun and practical devotional-type book that gave good reminders of the things God calls us to daily.
May 24, 2024
Kind of just “meh”-Scripture incorporated throughout but a skimmer for sure.
September 12, 2024
⭐️4.2
Light reading with short chapters, and a good message
Light reading with short chapters, and a good message
January 2, 2025
It’s super sweet and easy to read. Kind of changes how you see day day things.
February 1, 2026
Really great ideas, reminders and suggestions for the Christian!
February 26, 2025
I've taken my time reading through this book mainly because I wanted to actually take the time to add some of these to my daily/weekly habits and that takes time to do. The habits and to-do's have been VERY helpful to keeping my goals "accomplish-able" as well. The fact that this goal-setting book is written from a Christian-ly and Biblical point-of-view meant that worldy ideas took a seat in the waaaay, far back of the life's station wagon--I loved it!!! I think that this book would make an excellent basis for a Christian goal-setting, life coach Bible study/class.
November 30, 2019
This wasn’t in my normal genre but the title intrigued me and I couldn’t wait to read it and I’m delighted i did as it was a lovely read full of short but very thought provoking chapters that really made me think about my life and choices. I highly recommend this lovely book.
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc of What If God Wrote Your Shopping List my review is honest and unbiased.
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc of What If God Wrote Your Shopping List my review is honest and unbiased.
March 9, 2021
This was pretty darn good for a devotional. Some really fit, some didn’t but all were short and not judgmental feeling and I looked forward to seeing what it would be. I also felt like it wrapped up with a purpose nicely
November 24, 2017
With so many ways to stay organised in today's digital world it can actually become overwhelming to try and be on top of things. In 'What if God Wrote Your To-Do List', Jay Payleitner steps the reader through the process of getting our priorities right. When we write our to-do lists, Payleitner asks whether we are considering God's desires for us. This book implores the reader to truly think about what is important to accomplish each day, and how that fits in with God's plan for us.
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