How can we live as if "time is short" in today's world? The Heart of Paul’s Exhortation “ What I mean, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none.” — 1 Corinthians 7:29 Recognizing the Urgency • Scripture treats time as a rapidly fading resource (Psalm 90:12; James 4:14). • Paul’s phrase “the time is short” presses believers to weigh every decision against eternity. • The Lord could return at any moment (Matthew 24:42–44; Revelation 22:12). Prioritizing Eternal Matters • Align daily choices with Christ’s kingdom first (Matthew 6:33). • Invest energy in activities that yield eternal fruit—worship, discipleship, evangelism. • Filter plans and desires through Romans 13:11 – “our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.” Simplifying Attachments • Paul is not dismissing marriage or possessions; he is calling believers to hold them loosely (1 Corinthians 7:30–31). • Regularly evaluate what may be competing with wholehearted devotion: – Hobbies that crowd out worship – Excessive media consumption – Material pursuits that dull spiritual appetite Engaging Relationships Wisely • Love family deeply yet remember they belong to God first (Luke 14:26 in context of ultimate loyalty). • Model Christlike service in the home while keeping focus on the coming kingdom. • Encourage one another daily (Hebrews 10:24–25), knowing time to influence loved ones is brief. Stewarding Resources • Manage money as a tool, not a treasure (1 Timothy 6:17–19). • Give generously now; earthly wealth will fade (Proverbs 3:9; Matthew 6:19–20). • Schedule and budget with mission in view—support gospel work, meet urgent needs, lighten future regrets. Embracing Gospel Opportunities • “Make the most of every opportunity” (Ephesians 5:15–16). • Share Christ naturally in everyday conversations—workplace, neighborhood, online. • View interruptions as divine appointments; the Spirit may be redirecting moments for eternal impact (Acts 8:26–35). Maintaining Joyful Expectation • Live alert and hopeful, not anxious (Philippians 4:4–7). • Remind the heart daily of Christ’s promise: “Surely I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:20). • Celebrate each small act of obedience as one more step toward hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). |
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