As long as we’re in this world, the passage of time is inevitable. It never stops for anyone; as the end of every year draws near, we must prepare ourselves for what’s next. This is tremendously comforting for some, but terrifying for others. However, trusting in God assures us that no matter how long or short our future is, we’ll be fine.

Defining the length of the future is tricky; it can be a matter of days, weeks, months, or many years. People who aren’t on good terms with God make a huge mistake by putting off mending the broken relationship, thinking they’ll have time later, but we never know when “later” will cease to exist. No one knows the day or the hour when this time here will end, not even the angels, but only the Father. The parable Jesus told about the death of the rich man and Lazarus reminds us that there are no more chances to change things after we die. 

Our present lives aren’t all there is. Each year on earth can make us more reflective of what is eventually to come. The final destination for the world isn’t good; by comparison, for the believer, to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

The time to accept God’s favor is right now, because our decision now impacts where we’ll end up later. The grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to everyone; we all, therefore, have the same chance. The thoughts God thinks toward us are of peace, to give us a future and a hope. As His children, no matter what happens to us here on earth, things can only get better.

Prayer:

Lord, no one but You knows the future, but since we’re Your children, our future is bright. Thank You for teaching us to trust in You, because this keeps us on the path to heaven. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Scriptures:

Matthew 24:36

Luke 16:19-31

2 Corinthians 5:8

Titus 2:11

Jeremiah 29:11