Our time on earth is a journey, stepping stones in learning life’s lessons.  The path goes forward or backward.  There is no middle ground.

Trials are opportunities for growth, stretching the believer’s faith, trust and obedience.  Dependence upon God is the only way to peace.

In this journey we are never alone:  “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.  When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.  When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.  For I am the Lord your God, the holy One of Israel, your Savior”  (Isaiah 43:1-3 NIV).

Realizing the brevity of time keeps life in perspective.  Mankind is “terminal.”  Tomorrow is not guaranteed.  Abusing the gift of life leads to serious consequences.  Life’s answer cannot be found apart from God.

“Things” never satisfy:  “But store your treasures in heaven where they cannot be destroyed by moths or rust and where thieves cannot break in and steal them.  Your heart will be where your treasure is”  (Matthew 6:20-21 NCV).

Life’s answer is not found in chemical dependency, people, possessions or any other external thing.  The abundant life is found only in God.  Living by His rules provides protection, safety and wholeness.

A life of selfishness leaves battle scars and wounds in the lives of others.  The pain inflicted can last a lifetime, especially in children.  Children are great examples of faith and they find joy in every day.  They simply believe God.  When Cody, our grandson, was small, his parents read stories to him about Jesus and heaven.  Cody became so excited he wanted to go to heaven right then.

  My husband’s young nephew arose every morning saying with great enthusiasm:  “Maybe Jesus will come today.”  At the end of the day, he said “No, Jesus didn’t come today, but maybe He will tomorrow.”  Oh to have that wondrous faith of children!

Psalm 90:12 admonishes us to “number our days.”  Each day brings one day closer to eternity.  There are no “do-overs” in the grave.  Whatever spiritual state we find ourselves in at the hour of death is the state we remain in for eternity.  The peace of God comes to the believer whose faith and trust refuses to live in doubt.

Peter gives sound advice in 2 Peter 1:10-11:  “So, dear brothers, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen, and then you will never stumble or fall away.  And God will open wide the gates of heaven for you to enter into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”  (TLB)

The “Good News” is that Jesus is in the restoration business.  His love and mercy provides a way, the only way to eternal life.  Each day is His gift to you.  Open your heart and receive your gift with love, admiration and gratitude.  He who listens with his heart gains a multitude of wisdom, prospering in all of his ways.

Make the most of every day.  Count your blessings.  Be patient in trials.  Live one day at a time.  Trust in God.  Weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice.  Pray every day.  Look for the good.  Refuse to live in the past.  Be a giver.  Befriend the lonely.  Fill your life with good thoughts, good words and good friends.  Say “I love you” to those you love.  Do a good deed every day.

Use your gift of today wisely and you will discover a wonderful secret:

You returned your gift to God!