“THE NOW FACTOR”
Ever notice how many things we put off with a “someday?” “Someday, I’ll get in shape.” “Someday, I’ll organize the garage.” “Someday, I’ll spend more time with the kids.” And the list goes on…
If we aren’t careful we live our lives in the “SOMEDAY” mode and never enjoy today. The Bible speaks of living with an eye on the future, which is called hope, while making the most of living in the NOW.
There is a hope or an expectation for the followers of Jesus Christ of a better tomorrow. In fact, we are told that no matter how bad things get in the “now” it can’t even be compared with the good that shall be experienced in the future. Therefore, there is a sense of groaning within as we long for the fulfillment of the promised day.
Romans 8:18-25 (ESV) 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. 19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
Meanwhile, as we wait patiently for the things that are positive but “not yet” we are to live in the NOW mode, making the most of every opportunity.
2 Corinthians 6:2 (ESV) For he says, "In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you." Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
Hebrews 3:15 (ESV) As it is said, "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion."
It’s real easy to put off things into the “someday” file or to live in the past “good old days” and never enjoy today.
Ecclesiastes 7:10 (ESV) Say not, "Why were the former days better than these?" For it is not from wisdom that you ask this.
As we put it all together in the NOW FACTOR we can see it’s a matter of being focused enough on today to make the most of it. Knowing the past, recognizing mistakes and the lesson learned along the way is of great value. Being thankful to God for past blessings is also an essential part of making the most of today. However, a view of today is to live today and not worry about the future.
Matthew 6:34 (ESV) "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Although we are not to think about tomorrow as to worry about what will happen and how our needs will be provided, we are to be mindful of God created opportunities and keep the hope of a glorious future ever before our eyes.
Isaiah 43:19 (ESV) Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.
Jeremiah 29:11-13 (ESV) 11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. 13 You will seek me and find me. When you seek me with all your heart,
Let the NOW FACTOR help you make the most of living today.
Godspeed,
Bob Brubaker
Bob is the pastor of Christ Community Presbyterian Church, Clearwater, Florida. See www.ccpconline.org for church information and listen to Bob’s latest sermons.
PowerBreak News:
All tax deductible donations to PowerBreak can be made through Christ Community Presbyterian Church, 2310 Nursery Road, Clearwater, FL 33764. Please note “PowerBreak” on your check.
The International Christian Triathlon Network Endurance Camp is set for January 2010. For details, click here http://www.ictrinet.com/. Hi everyone,
I'd like to invite you all to the 5th annual International Christian Triathlon Network Camp. It's in sunny Tucson, AZ January 29 - 31 (Friday - Sunday). I've attended this camp and have met several great folks. It's a combination of physical training, spiritual training, fellowship, worship, and networking with other Christian Multisport athletes from around the continent.
In addition to getting some great training in with other folks (in sunny AZ in the middle of winter), this camp is a great opportunity to recharge your spiritual batteries and connect with some great folks. It's not just for triathletes -- we often have single sport endurance athletes joining us as well: runners, swimmers, XC skiers, cyclists, adventure racers, climbers, hikers, and mountain climbers. There will even be a cycling challenge up Mt. Lemon in Tucson.
Feel free to spread the word and please let me know if you have any questions. Hope you will consider joining us!
Here's the link:
http://www.ictrinet.com/
