Newsletter November 2024 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 so now that we see the world around us changing at a stunning pace.  We are experiencing huge shifts in politics and the economy as well as in the fabric of our society.  The rapid advances in technology are affecting every aspect of our lives, and it seems like nothing is predictable anymore.  Many are fearing for their future and their livelihoods and, as a result, are getting ever busier, trying to make ends meet.

     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 as believers 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 the midst of trouble and instability.  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 things will work out and 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.