Time is a continuum of the past, the present, and the future. We can learn from things that happened in the past, but we can never return to relive the past. It is history!

We spend much time and effort trying to influence the future. It is good to plan ahead, but it is easy to fall into the trap of worrying about things that we can't control. Jesus said:

Matthew 6:34 – Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (NIV)

All we ever have is the present, and that is where we should always be willing to take action.

I have a niece who is an experienced doctor. Some months ago, when discussing a heart problem that I have, she said, "It is life-limiting but not life-threatening." She was telling me to be positive and active and not to worry about things that I can't control.

At all ages, we have challenges, but today — in the present — it is our challenge to actively show our love for God by demonstrating love for others.

A neighbour in my residence hangs a plaque with sayings on his door each day. The day when I was writing this devotional, the plaque was entitled, The Clock of Life:

The clock of life is wound but once
And no man has the power
To tell just when the hand will stop
At late or early hour.
Now is the only time you own.
Live, love, and toil with a will.
Place no faith in tomorrow,
For the clock may then be still.

Some years ago, I was given a book by Dr. Spencer Johnson entitled The Precious Present. The writer sets out the truth that we all have the gift of the present with which to do something.

The Book of Ecclesiastes is very thought-provoking. I particularly like these verses:

Ecclesiastes 11:7-8 – Light is sweet, and it pleases the eyes to see the sun. However many years a man may live, let him enjoy them all. But let him remember the days of darkness, for they will be many. Everything to come is meaningless. (NIV)

The most significant action that we each have to take is to accept the gift of Jesus as our Saviour. Jesus says, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6 NIV)

2 Corinthians 6:1-3 – As God's partners, we beg you not to accept this marvelous gift of God's kindness and then ignore it. 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. (NLT)

Prayer: Dear Father, help us to realize the importance of now. Help us to take action, first in accepting the gift of Your Son and our Saviour, and then in sharing Your love daily in our actions with others. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

Vincent Walter <vwalter@bell.net>
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Send your feedback to the author