I remember hearing the phrase “redeeming the time” at an early age. (Likely because we ran fifteen to twenty minutes late everywhere!) Webster’s 1828 defines redeeming, in this context, as “to use more diligence in the improvement of it; to be diligent and active in duty and preparation”. That ought to transform how we view time, don’t you think? In other words, our use of time should not only be guided by the knowledge of life’s fleeting nature, in a “seize the day” manner, but burdened by and diligently looking towards, or preparing for, eternity.

With that in mind, we can read verses like Ephesians 5:15-17, realizing the weighty responsibility of the Believer. One of my favorite Bible words is “circumspectly”. Noah Webster defines it as “cautiously, with watchfulness every way, and with attention to guard against surprise or danger“. Reading that, I cannot help but consider the Christian’s walk. I imagine myself journeying carefully, looking all about, fully armored so as not to be tripped up by the enemy.

The essence of those verses is that we must walk with awareness of the times in which we live and wisely seek the will of God. What is God’s ultimate will for mankind? 2 Peter 3:9 clearly states that His will is for all to come to repentance. Aren’t you thankful for that?

The Lord consistently reveals His heart for humanity to us throughout scripture, but perhaps nowhere is His purpose more clearly stated than in Luke 19:10. The Son of man came to seek and to save – making it personal, Beloved, He came for YOU! He came for the person you’re thinking of right now! Will you take time today to share with them that Good News?

Be steadfast, unmovable & always abounding in His work, fellow laborer… before it’s eternally too late.