Newsletter January 2021 Part 2
What’s the time?
And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. (Luke 12:29-31)
Most of us tend to spend a considerable portion of our time worrying, probably even more during this present crisis. As restrictions are temporarily eased only to be reintroduced and even further toughened within just a matter of weeks, we find ourselves constantly having to adapt and unable to make plans. As we see our economy collapsing, many are losing their livelihoods and fearing for their future. Meanwhile others are working longer hours than ever and wonder how they will manage. How we spend the time we have is therefore more critical than ever.
If we added up all the time we spend wondering what to do next, the result would probably come as a shock to us – and hopefully as a wakeup call. Countless hours are wasted through worry; hours that could have been utilised in a more productive way. But how do we overcome worry? What do we do when the future seems bleak and we don’t know what tomorrow will bring?
Jesus challenges us regarding our worries. As His followers, we are to be different to the ‘pagan world’, to those who do not know God. We have a loving Father who cares for us. He knows our needs and He is well able to supply them – even in a crisis like the one we are experiencing. All we have to do is ask – and trust that He will take care of us. If we would only trust our Heavenly Father instead of being overwhelmed by cares, we could spend our time seeking God for guidance, thanking Him for keeping us safe and for providing for us, and encouraging others.
Trust has little to do with knowing the future and figuring out how our needs will be met; it is all about the One in whom we put our confidence. To trust, we do not need to know what lies ahead or even comprehend our present situation. All we need to know is that the One whom we trust is trustworthy.
Jesus addresses this issue of focus – seek the kingdom of God, set your minds on His purpose. And as you do so, your loving Father will take care of everything else. God’s plans for us are plans to prosper [us] and not to harm [us], plans to give [us] hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)
So then we each need to ask ourselves the question: What is it that dominates my thoughts? Where do I invest my time and effort? Is it in His kingdom, or am I so preoccupied with my apparent needs that I have lost sight of His purpose for my life? Am I missing out on His peace while I focus all my attention on what is happening around me and how it may affect me?
One day this life will be over and we will have to give account for the way we have used the resources God has given us: our gifts and talents, our material resources, our physical strength, and our time. Then there will be no opportunity to go back and do things differently. Every day, every minute, every second that has gone by has passed forever; we will never get it back. Whatever we have done with our time will remain our legacy - eternally. That is why Paul warns us (Ephesians 5:15): Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.
Time can be our greatest enemy, as it quietly ticks away; but it can also be our greatest gift – an opportunity to live a life of purpose, to make a difference. God has given us this life so we can honour Him: through our actions and through our worship. Let us resolve to live every day, every minute for His kingdom and His purpose. Whether we currently have more time or less, God will reward those who trust in Him and utilise the time they have for His glory.