Now Is the Time
Author: Ayodeji Oludapo
Date: December 7, 2024
Scripture: "He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap." — Ecclesiastes 11:4
Devotional Thoughts
Have you ever heard someone say, “I’ll serve the Lord when I’m older,” or “I’ll accept Jesus when life settles down”? Perhaps you’ve thought this yourself. It’s tempting to believe there will always be a more convenient time to follow God wholeheartedly. But Ecclesiastes 11:4 reminds us that waiting for perfect conditions often leads to inaction. Life’s uncertainties and distractions can keep us from stepping into the opportunities God has placed before us. The truth is, there is no perfect time to accept Jesus as your Savior or to respond to God’s call than right now.
Time is not ours to control. James 4:14 tells us, “You do not know what tomorrow will bring.” Our lives are but a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. If we delay, we risk missing the most important decision of our lives. The opportunity to accept Jesus or obey His call may not always be there. Death can come suddenly, and windows of opportunity can close before we realize it.
God is not asking for a future version of you; He’s calling you now. He wants your heart today, just as it is. Whether you feel unworthy, unready, or uncertain, God’s invitation stands: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts” (Hebrews 3:15).
Practical Reflections
What’s holding you back from accepting Jesus or fully surrendering to His plans? Is it fear, doubt, or the belief that you need to be “good enough” first? God doesn’t require perfection—He simply wants your willingness. Start small. Take a step of faith today. Pray, open your Bible, or share your faith with someone. Respond to God’s nudge in your heart, even if you feel inadequate. He will equip and empower you.
Perhaps God has placed a calling on your life to serve in ministry, start a new venture, or mend a broken relationship. Don’t wait for perfect conditions to act. Trust that God will guide you through the uncertainties. Like the farmer who plants despite the wind, sow your seeds of obedience today and trust God for the harvest.
Closing Thoughts
God’s timing is always now. Don’t let the illusion of tomorrow steal the opportunity of today. Accept Jesus as your Savior, serve Him with all your heart, and trust Him with the outcomes. There is no better moment to say “Yes” to God than this one.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of today. Forgive me for the times I’ve delayed responding to You. Help me to recognize that now is the time to accept You as Lord and Savior and to follow Your call. Give me courage to act in faith, even when conditions aren’t perfect. Lord, teach me to trust You with my life and to surrender to Your plans. I don’t want to miss the opportunities You have placed before me. I commit my heart and my life to You today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.