WHAT TIME IS IT?

I Was Just Thinking About – WHAT TIME IS IT?

Do you ever observe how often one’s watch is viewed to determine what time is it? Life is measured with time as an important factor. For those employed, it is required that certain hours of the day are assigned for one’s work to be done. For a student, it is the determination of what class is to be attended or what segment of one’s education is to be given one’s undivided attention. For the sports enthusiast, it is a focus on the day and time for the College Football Bowl Game one wishes to attend or view. In professional football, the focus is on the time one’s favorite team will participate in playoffs or the Super Bowl. In the secular world, we are people of habit. We have a set time for meals, rest, activities, etc.

When I began to develop this subject, my thoughts looked at the past year in review. I know of those who have faced various challenges and difficult times. Some had to deal with unexpected illnesses and the death of a loved one. The year had its peaks but also its valleys. It seemed as though the valley times were much longer and sustained than the peak moments. As a result, one looks at a New Year with hope that it will not duplicate the previous year – that it will be a year of fulfilled hopes and achievements.

As we approach a New Year, some will make resolutions of what they hope to achieve in the calendar year. Many will start off well but all too quickly the old habit or routine manages to creep back in and one’s resolve is compromised or discarded. Will there be times of  disappointment? Yes! Will there be moments of failure? Yes! Will there be times of uncertainty? Yes! Will you feel that it is unfair that you must endure these things? Yes!

In the spiritual area, three things came to my mind that I hope will grant you focus and lift your spirits. First, what time is it in regard to one’s relationship to and with the Lord? Second Corinthians 6:2 (NLT), “For God says: At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you. Indeed, the right time is now. Today is the day of salvation.” It is an important relationship one must seek and be secure in it.

Second, What time is it in terms of focus and commitment? The Word of God is clear about one’s times being in the hands of a faithful God. Also, that there is a time for every though and action or reaction. It would be great if we all would remember and practice Ecclesiastes 3:1 through 8. It is vital that one not only ascertain what is occurring at a given moment in time, but also to make application of the truth that one must move on. Life has much more meaning and purpose than just one event or moment. Ecclesiastes reminds us there is a time for everything under the sun.

Third, as you read your Bible this New Year, as a new approach take note of the many “Let us” passages you will read. “Let us” is not a mere behavioral suggestion but a call for an action and involvement to take place. As an illustration, read Psalm 95 (ESV) and note the frequency of how many “let us” actions are presented: “Let us sing…Let us make a joyful noise…Let us come into His presence…Let us worship…Let us kneel before our Maker…” Another illustration of “Let us” passages, see Hebrews 10:22-25 (ESV), “Let us draw near with a true heart…Let us hold fast the confession of our hope...Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works…” Hebrews 12:2, "Let us keep on looking to Jesus..."

What Time Is It? Luke 21:25-28 (ESV) addresses the signs of the day that is coming. Jesus stated: “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars…On the earth, there will be dismay among the nations… The time of your redemption is drawing near.”

Prayerfully – consider these thongs with me.