“I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again.” (William Penn)
We have one life to live and no promise of tomorrow. When our lives are over, that’s it. We don’t get a do-over.
It’s time to step up. We are alive now, and this is our time to love God and people. The world is a broken and messy place, and we have been called to live intentionally for this very reason.
“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:15-16
Are you making the most of your time?
Evil and darkness are all around. But we know the Light of the world and we have Him living within us. We can make a difference. Even more, we were called to this purpose, to penetrate the darkness by shining our lights.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
If you’re like me, sometimes you don’t feel that you have much to offer this broken world. Although it’s inspiring to think about God’s Light and resurrection power dwelling within you, your experience of this reality sometimes seems to fall short. How, then, can you rise to your light-shining calling? An Old Testament prophecy about a time of rampant evil gives us insight, as it highlights an important truth:
“…[B]ut the people who know their God will display strength and take action.” Daniel 11:32b
How well do you know your God? He is your source of strength. He is the one who shows you the way to take. If the thought of stepping up and taking action causes fear or uncertainty, seek to know your God better. Immerse yourself in His presence through prayer, worship, and time in the Word. From this place of relational intimacy, the Holy Spirit will lead and empower you.
Although we were not designed to do it all, there are specific works we were created for.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10
We may not know the big picture of all that God wants us to do. But we probably know something that He wants us to do. As we prayerfully consider God’s commands, the needs around us, and our unique giftings and experiences, we will have the light we need for our next step. And that’s all we need in order to put feet to our faith. With each step we take, we will find God faithful to strengthen and direct us.
People are hurting, fellow believers and lost souls alike. But there is hope, and we are a part of God’s plan to extend it to others. We can make a difference. Let’s stop giving in to complacency and fear and instead walk in the identity we have in Christ. We are “a people for God’s own possession, so that [we] may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called [us] out of darkness into His marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9b) We are “a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.” (Titus 2:14b)
No more excuses. Know your God and take action.
Jesus, I don’t always make the best use of my time. I’m sorry for letting complacency and fear hold me back. Help me to draw close to You and know You more. I want to shine my light. Show me the next step to take. In Your Name, Amen.
Kimberly Vaughn
Kimberly Vaughn is a wife and a homeschool mom of two. She has a passion to encourage and build up other women, especially those who are hurting and broken. She has been involved in various aspects of ministry since graduating from Bible college over 15 years ago. It is her desire for women to experience hope and transformation in Jesus through the words she writes and speaks.
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