Today, my first-born turns ten years old. This is her first day as “a double-digit.” Like most parents whose kids grow up, I wonder where the time went and realize how quickly life passes us by. It is at these times that certain passages of Scripture come to mind and seem to have special significance. Passages such as,
“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Eph 5:15-16 NKJV
and
“teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalms 90:12 NKJV
Our days on earth are not infinite and we must be careful to use them wisely. This means as a parent, my days with my children are limited. I only have a little time to bring them up in the Lord, lead them to faith and growth in Christ, and teach them the skills to live a Christian life. This is something I have been thinking about (and teaching in Sunday School) over the past few months.
In Colossians, there is a parallel passage that has specific application for missions and evangelism:
“Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.”
It is in the context of his own ministry that Paul challenges us to make the most of our time not only in our life and family, but in God’s kingdom work. As stewards of our lives, it is incumbent upon every believer to be workers in God’s harvest field, to “pray, give, and go” with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Yes, my daughter is ten today and seemingly has her whole life ahead of her. Yet as someone who was once ten myself, I know that life is short. I must be conscious of the time I have left with my children. I must teach her the value time to make the most of every opportunity -- to use every moment to glorify God. Most of all, I must demonstrate a life that is “on mission” with God. I must be involved in spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ at home and to the uttermost parts of the earth.
God has only given us one life to live and we must be stewards of it.
How will I use it?
How will she use it?
How will you use it?
2 comments:
Tell her Happy Birthday for me!
From what I've seen, you've done a pretty good job so far. Or should that credit go to her mom?
Thank God for parents like you guys! I've heard people say they couldn't/wouldn't want to bring a child into such a messed up world.
Well the only chance we have to make it less messed up is to raise kids who fear and love God (and sometimes us..LOL) and pray that they are able to continue to make a positive impact in a lost world.
Again congrats to you and her and mom for surviving this long.
James
Happy Birthday miss Ashley!! You are so special and I'm so proud of you. You have a lot to offer other people. Even at 10 years old, you can do amazing things for God! I've seen it in you already. I love you girly!!
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