#217 THE PASSAGE OF TIME 10-1-26

Time has a way of moving quietly while changing everything in its path. We notice it in the calendar, in the mirror, in the faces of our children, and in the memories that once seemed so recent. Yesterday becomes years ago almost before we realize it. James reminds us that our life “is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (James 4:14). Life is brief, and time does not stop for anyone.

The Bible repeatedly calls us to think carefully about the days God has given us. Moses prayed, “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). We cannot add another hour to yesterday, and we cannot live tomorrow before it arrives. What we have is today. Paul said, “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time” (Ephesians 5:15-16).

The passage of time should not merely make us nostalgic. It should make us purposeful. There are people who need to hear the gospel, hearts that need encouragement, wrongs that need to be made right, prayers that need to be prayed, and good works that need to be done. Jesus said, “I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day” (John 9:4).

One day our earthly clock will stop. Hebrews 9:27 reminds us that “it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.” But for the Christian, the passing of time is not simply a march toward an ending. It is a journey toward the presence of Christ. Every sunrise is another opportunity to serve Him. Every day is another gift.

We cannot slow time, reclaim time, or purchase more of it. But we can use what remains for the glory of God. The question is not how much time we have left. The question is what we will do with the time God has given us.

BDD