Today’s Reading: James 4:11-17
Today’s Verse: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. James 4:14 KJV
“Time is of the essence.” This is considered a legal term. It is most often used in contracts. It means that timely performance is important,
It includes a clause regarding the failure to meet deadlines. Making it where someone will seek other ways to handle their situation.
This exact phrase is not found in the Bible.
What the Bible says is, “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” (James 4:14 KJV).
It speaks to the need for and importance of making the most of our time. The importance of living a purpose-driven life.
That there is something that needs to be done for the kingdom daily.
Mary J. Blige sings a song called, “Just Fine.” It is not considered a gospel song. But it does send a message of self-love. To keep a cheerful outlook. That we have the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.
It is encouragement to feel good about ourselves. To keep a positive mindset, even when facing challenges or negative situations. The importance of bouncing back from our setbacks. Not letting obstacles stand in our way.
That is what the Lord wants for our lives.
He wants us to stay encouraged. Letting nothing stand in our way. Keeping a positive way of thinking. Doing that which the Lord has for our lives.
Live with a sense of purpose. Each day this is how we are to live our lives. Because we know that tomorrow is not promised.
We must humble ourselves before Him. Showing that we recognize our limited understanding. That there will be challenges and temptations.
Staying in the Word. The greatest way to manage our way of thinking about things.
It allows us to get a better understanding of what the Lord has for our lives.
How our relationship with God and others is of great importance.
We are to make the most of each day. Understanding that life is a gift from God.
We acknowledge that our plans are subject to God’s will. They are subject to His purpose. That we are to depend on Him.
Our lives are in His hands. He knows what is best for us.
Ephesians 5:14-16 tells us, “For everything there is a season.” That there is a set time for everything that happens in our lives. We are to let nothing stand in our way.
We are to stay in God’s will and purpose. We are to do it in every stage and activity in our lives.
Through the Lord we have the ability to see the big picture. He will help us get an understanding of our actions. He will help us make the right decisions.
Do nothing without constant regard to the will and Spiritual Power of God. Stay in His protective care.
We know not what tomorrow will bring. Be determined to make the best of your time.
We do know that our long-term, spiritual, and divine values should outweigh our worldly concerns.
Understanding that our actions and choices have consequences. Ones that extend beyond our current lives. They go into eternity.
That is why we must focus on eternal goals. Putting God and our relationship with Him first.
Recognizing His plans for our lives. Fulfilling His purpose in the world.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Father, as the psalmist says, “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” We want to live according to Your Word. We want to live wisely. Help us to recognize the limited amount of time we have. The urgent need for sharing Your gospel with others. “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under Heaven.” We want to use it for Your glory. To be ready for Christ’s return. May our lives continue to align with Your will and purpose in every stage and activity of life. Thank You for using us in this season.
In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen