Time and Opportunity

'I have observed something else under the sun. The fastest runner doesn't always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn't always win the battle. The wise sometimes go hungry, and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. And those who are educated don't always lead successful lives. It is all decided by chance, by being in the right place at the right time'.  Ecclesiastes 9:11

Each one of us whether black or white, rich or poor, Jew or Greek is afforded the same opportunity.  Now before you start to argue with me, let me explain.  Each one of us has been given the opportunity to do what is right.  There are those of us who try to do things our own way and have to repeat lessons over and over again, putting a hold on the blessings of God.  There are those of us who have grown in age but not in spiritual maturity and are just not ready to receive all that God has prepared for we would not be good stewards.  But these facts are neither here nor there.  We all have a time and space in which to operate and opportunity has it's chance to run its course.  Now with 'time and opportunity' this thing called 'circumstance' may step in and cause us to become frustrated.  But that does not mean that time and opportunity have passed you by.  It just means that this may not be your time. Nevertheless,  while you have time and opportunity, try your best to always choose to do what is right but never count out circumstance (also known as hindrances, roadblocks, opposition).  Make the most of every day while it is day.

I love Mary Mary's new song 'Walking'.  It reminded me that it is not always good to be in a hurry.  Sometimes you get so busy trying to get where you are going that you don't care how you are treating other people. You don't seem to mind who you are knocking down on your way to the top.  The verse above reminds you that you should never rely on your own strength and abilities.  As a Christian you should know that 'every good and perfect gift comes from the Lord'.  You should also remind yourself of the providence of God.  He gives success and wealth to whomever He chooses.  He hasn't made me wealthy because I like to participate in too much retail therapy and I have three daughters who are growing up to  be worse than me.  Does He still supply every one of my needs?  Absolutely!  That is why when you do succeed you should give God the praise.  On the other hand when things don't work out according to your plans, submit to His will and give God the praise anyway. You may be burdened down with slow progress, disappointment, disfavor in spite of an abundance of opportunity. Maybe your marriage has failed or simply a long-term relationship with the person you thought was the one.  Economy took a downturn, you lost your job and haven't been able to get back on track.  In spite of all you have done to be successful, you still feel like a failure.  My task today was to stop by and tell you to stop beating yourself up.  You are not a failure.  You are still in a place to receive the favor of God.  You must simply trust and believe that God knows what He is doing.  He has not left you out on a limb by yourself.  You must be obedient to the Word.  Meditate on it day and night.  There are so many hidden treasures hidden inside those sixty-six books for you to discover.  Treasure that will help you through every situation of life.  Remember what I said, "No matter what is going on use the 'time and opportunity' given you wisely and realize that 'circumstance' will interrupt your best laid plans.   Even when this does occur remember you serve a God who sits high and looks low....just look up to Him!   He got you covered.  'For we know that all things work together for the good of them who love the Lord, who are the called according to His purpose."  Romans 8:28

Most Gracious Heavenly Father,

Here I am Lord submitting myself  to Your will.  I have been walking around disappointed in myself and frustrated with my life.  Every time I take one step forward it seems circumstance comes along and knocks me two steps back. I know that You are still working behind the scenes on my behalf so today I am giving my struggle to You.  Help me to be obedient to Your Word and stand on Your promises.  In Jesus' Wonderful Name I pray Amen.