Seize the day

My times are in Your hand. — Psalm 31:15                                        

Before entering the broadcasting field, Jim Valvano led the North Carolina State University basketball team to a national championship. Then cancer developed in his lower back. Invited to address the Duke University squad, Jim had this to say: “Life changes when you least expected it to. The future is uncertain. So, seize this day, seize this moment, and make the most of it.”

God gives us an urgent directive in Hebrews 3:13, “Exhort one another daily, while it is called ‘Today,’ lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” Why is there such a strong insistence on today?

It may be that today, this very day, could be the last one in our time here on earth. Today may be your last opportunity to accept God’s gift of salvation, or if you know the Lord already, to share His love with a friend or loved one.

James has this warning about presuming upon our tomorrows: “You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (4:14).

Seize the opportunities that God gives you today. That’s sound advice — not just for basketball players, but for all of us. — Vernon Grounds                 

Redeem the time — God only knows

How soon our little life may close;

As every passing moment flows,

Redeem the time! — Anon

READ: Hebrews 3:7-15

Plan as though you’ll be living for a century; live as though you’ll be leaving today.

The Bible in one year:

• Acts 18-22

• Proverbs 16:22-33