People often use the saying “make the most of every opportunity.” I fully agree. It is even biblical according to scripture. Paul, in his letter to strengthen the believers everywhere, wrote in Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV) “Be very careful, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” He understood that people would be tempted. But he also knew that people could gain wisdom through knowing Christ and using hardships and other life experiences as an opportunity to share God’s grace and grow the body of believers.
While in prison, Paul continued to reach out to others to spread good news. The good news being that God is all we need. Paul sent instructions in Colossians 4:2-6 (NIV), “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
Sometimes the term “make” makes me personally feel the need to be prepared to apply additional effort if an opportunity arises. Lately though, opportunities have hit me more quickly than I can take a breath much less prepare myself. Then I realize that someone else has already prepared me for that moment in time. God. His timing is always perfect. It is all-knowing and flawless. Just like all the examples in the scriptures, He has given me a living testimony to share with the world today in order to call believers and grow His church. I simply needed to prepare my heart by having it completely full of Him and nothing else.
For so long, I had it full of other things…worry, burdens, troubles, stress, insecurities, heartaches. But when I gave all that to Him, he gave me, peace, happiness, freedom, full breaths, smiles, a clearer perspective and a chance to share all of that with others…often. Sometimes with words, sometimes through actions, sometimes with a hug or a smile, sometimes with gestures and sometimes praying for that person without them even knowing it.
So I will follow Paul’s clear directions and I will continue to be ever so devoted to prayer, I will have eyes wide open so that I may be watchful for the opportunities God places before me and I will be thankful for all the plans He has for me. Along the way I continue to pray for guidance as I relay His word clearly and precisely. I also pray for discernment for others in ministry that they too proclaim a clear message according to scriptures and do not distort the word of God.
Because he lives
I can face tomorrow
Because he lives
All fear is gone
Because I know
He holds the future
And life is worth the living
Just because he lives
(Lyrics from the Hymn – Because He Lives)
It is in your holy name I pray Lord,
Jennifer
Paper Plate Prayers 