The Race Against Time

At some point in our lives, we have all heard the phrase "it's a race against time." What exactly do people mean by this? We know time is valuable because we don't have much time on this earth. Our life is but a vapor. *James 4:14-Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow: For what is your life? It is even a vapor, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.* We often believe we have all the time in the world, but the truth is our time is shorter than we think. It's time to make a commitment to make the most of the time we have. Literally, time is defined as "the thing that is measured as seconds, minutes, hours, days, years, etc." There are so many ways time can be measured. However, that's the way we measure time. People measure the time it takes them to drive to work, school, or a restaurant. They also measure the time spent with one another. One definition of TIME could be To Intentionally Make Effort. When friends or family get together, they are intentionally making an effort to spend time together. This is the way we get to know people and grow closer to them. When we fail to spend time with those we love, our relationships become strained. Also, if we fail to spend time with God, our relationship with Him will slowly start deteriorating. Time with God is time well spent.

There are several key differences between man's time and God's time. First, man's time can either be too late or too early. If we go to a job interview, chances are we're going to show up a little early. If we are meeting a friend for lunch last minute, we might be a little late. Also, not every clock is programmed the same, so times can vary. God's time is exact. He is never too early or too late; He always shows up right on time. God's definition of time is not limited by seconds, minutes, hours, days, years, etc. He can do more in one hour than we could do in a lifetime. When thinking about man's time, we realize we are subject to one another. The doctor's office helps set up a time for an appointment; therefore, we are on their time. God's timing is sovereign, which means it is not subject to the influence of man. If He decides to heal someone who has been sick for years, He can do so in an instant. God's time can accomplish much more than man's time. We can rest assured that God makes everything perfect in HIS time. *Ecclesiastes 3:11-He hath made everything beautiful in His time: also He hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.*

Don't forget that our time is short on this earth, so we must make the most of the small space we are given. We never know when our time will come to leave this earth, so it is essential that we live every day as if it were our last. Time is precious, so stop trying to make it a game or a race. We need to embrace what we have because someday Jesus is coming back. *Matthew 25:13-Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.* While we are awaiting His return, let us be conscious of time, and do our best to live for Him. If we are not intentional about the way we are living, the value of time is lost on us. What will you do with the time you are given?