As a nation, America is still young—just 249 years old. Out of those years, I’ve been blessed to live 63 of them. How many years has God given you so far?
When we step back and consider America’s brief place in world history, we realize we’re just a small part of God’s much bigger story. With America’s connection to Israel, the conflicts in the Middle East, and the rising influence of Russia and China, I’ve noticed that many Christians and spiritual leaders are becoming more focused on “The End Times.” And while it’s important to be aware of the times we’re living in, I believe God is also calling us to be mindful of how we’re living today—with hearts fully devoted to Him, not just watching for the end, but walking closely with Jesus every day.
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.”
Ephesians 5:15-17 NIV
Paul is urging us to live carefully—with wisdom and intention. His warning still rings true: the days are evil. We know this. We feel it. That’s why we must make the most of every opportunity to live for Jesus—now, today.
At another church, Paul reminded believers of what it looks like to live faithfully each day:
“Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living…. Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.”
1 Thessalonians 4:1, 11-12 NIV
Paul points them back to a practical, everyday faith:
- Lead a quiet life.
- Work hard.
- Don’t meddle in the affairs of others.
- Live in such a way that your life earns the respect of those around you.
It’s still a timely word for us today.
Here’s my encouragement: Be careful not to get so caught up in trying to figure out the “End Times” that you miss living faithfully in your own time.
Whether Jesus returns in our lifetime or not, our priority is to live in dependence on Him today.
Honestly, trying to sort out all the “End Time” timelines and interpretations is not my personal focus. And I hope it’s not your highest priority either. There are so many opinions, biases, and debates about the End Times. Wherever you land on those views, my prayer is that we would all focus on this:
– Grow mānoa in your love for God and people.
– Learn to live for Jesus daily, in obedience to His Word.
Let’s make the most of every opportunity—today.
