The Passing of Time

God is eternal, having existed before the creation of the universe (Genesis 1:1; Psalm 102:27). As such, He is not bound by time as we are. He created it as a framework for our lives.

We, naturally, tend to think of the passing of time as inevitable. But one day, time will be destroyed (done away with) along with all of God's creation (2 Peter 3:10).

This time of year, many people make resolutions and goals for the new year. There is certainly nothing wrong with this. But our repentance, growth, and work in God's service should not depend on a certain date turning up on the calendar. “Behold, now is 'the acceptable time,' behold, now is 'the day of salvation'” (2 Corinthians 6:2). These words are as true any day of the year as they are now.

In the same way, people like to plan things for the upcoming year. Again, there is nothing wrong with this. But remember your reliance upon God and that life is uncertain. We can make plans, but we ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that” (James 4:15).

So use this time commonly used to plan and to make resolutions to grow in the Lord and improve your service to Him. And if, in the future, you find something you need to change or improve, do not wait for some date on the calendar. Do it today. Throughout the year, continue to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).