Happy New Year! In this new year, you are encouraged to embrace a proactive mindset and actively seek out opportunities that come your way. Opportunities won’t come knocking on our doors if we are merely spectators of life. Remember the immortal words of Andy from the movie Shawshank Redemption, “I guess it comes down to a simple choice, really. Get busy living or get busy dying.” Let those words ignite a determination within you to live fully.
In this fast-paced world, there are countless opportunities waiting to be seized. Whether it’s finding a fulfilling job, settling down in a dream home, getting married, having children, investing in our children, going on a diet, getting in shape, learning something new, or pursuing a well-deserved vacation, the possibilities are endless. But sometimes, these opportunities spring upon us unexpectedly, throwing us into confusion and uncertainty. We are left wondering whether to step through the open door bravely or perhaps we don’t even see the open door at all.
As a Christian, when an opportunity comes your way, consider whether it aligns with Scripture and the character of God. God would never tell us to engage in something that contradicts His teachings. If you are not sure what path to take, immerse yourself in the Bible and seek His wisdom from scripture. By earnestly seeking God in prayer, ask Him for discernment, guidance, and the wisdom necessary to make the right decision in the face of the opportunity before you.
Wisdom
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” James 1:5
Godly wisdom is needed to make good decisions in this world. Worldly wisdom, such as advice from the internet or social media, may not always steer you in the right direction. On the other hand, Godly wisdom can be found through prayer, reading scripture, listening to the Holy Spirit, reading books and articles from a Christian perspective, and seeking advice from wise Christians. God reveals His will for our lives through the Holy Spirit and through Scripture. He knows the best route you should take to get you where He wants you to be. Seeking wisdom and discernment from God should be where we go first for all aspects of our lives.
“Whoever is wise, let him understand these things; whoever is discerning, let him know them; for the ways of the LORD are right, and the upright walk in them, but transgressors stumble in them.” Hosea 14:9
Don’t Be Afraid
“for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7
When you have discerned that God has given you the green light to walk through the door of opportunity, do not be afraid. God did not give you a spirit of fear. If you discern that this is God’s will for you, you may experience feelings of joy but also fear. Don’t let fear paralyze you and cause you to miss the opportunity. Don’t let Satan instill fear and doubt in you, as the enemy would be pleased if you were to miss out on this opportunity.
“ Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8
When faced with opportunities, it is important to trust in God’s guidance. If you discern that this opportunity aligns with God’s will for your life, there is no need to be afraid. God does not want you to be driven by fear. Even though there may be mixed emotions, such as happiness and fear, you can take comfort in knowing that Jesus promised to remain with you always, even until the end of this age. (Matthew 28:20). Don’t let fear stop you from receiving the blessings that come with seizing this opportunity. Be aware that the enemy, Satan, might try to sow doubt and fear in your heart to prevent you from taking advantage of the opportunity. Trusting in God’s guidance and holding onto His promises will help you overcome any fear or doubt that may arise.
Trials May Come
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 2 Corinthians 4:17
Not every opportunity you take is guaranteed to be smooth sailing. Remember, it is through trials and tribulations that we are able to strengthen our relationship with God. Without these trials, our faith in God would not have the chance to deepen and grow.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-4
The Dash
My mother passed away last year. As I visit the cemetery and wander through the rows of gravestone markers, there is something similar on all of them. There is a birthdate, then a dash, then the death date. It’s not the date you were born or the date you die that matters. What matters is the dash between those years and how you use it to make a difference in this world. The idea of the dash came from a poem and book written by Linda Ellis on “The Dash.”
For Christians, between the time you repent of your sins and confess Christ as your Savior to the time you die, there is another date – the date you were saved. This is the time you have to tell others of God’s love and how He made a way for them to enter heaven when they die.
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19
Life is shorter than you think, my friend. Pray and ask God for opportunities this year to serve Him. The more we experience God’s love in our own lives, the more prone we are to respond in love by serving Him through opportunities that pass our way.
“making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:16
As we enter a new year, we are presented with blank pages on which to write your life’s journey. Today marks the start of a new book called “Opportunities,” waiting to be written by each and every one of us. Let’s embrace a mindset of gratitude and be more aware of the many opportunities and blessings God has given us.