1 Corinthians 7:25-40

Be Still: Lord, I give you this day and specifically this moment. Help me shift my attention away from the distractions of life and toward you and your presence. (Pause for a moment, close your eyes, and breathe) Come, lead me and guide me today. I invite you into the depths of my heart.

Read: 1 Corinthians 7:25-40
What I mean, brothers and sisters, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they do not; those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep; those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away. (vv 29-31)

Encounter: I recently went on holiday. While I enjoyed the journey and everything it entailed, I always had the destination in mind. I didn’t want to remain on the journey, become best friends with every person I met, or spend all my money before reaching the destination.

As Christians, life on earth is like a journey—it’s temporary, passing away day by day. What will remain is the destination: eternity. Paul’s challenge and encouragement to us today is to live with an awareness of the passing nature of this world and where we are ultimately heading.

Of course, we honour and value all the human relationships we now have, but over and beyond them and far more important, is our relationship with Jesus. And while we steward our resources and possessions well, we hold them lightly, knowing they are only temporary.

If you knew Jesus was returning tomorrow—or even next year—would it change how you spend your time, what you use your money for, and what you prioritise? I know for me, it would.

Life is short, the world is temporary, and eternity is near. Let us live faithfully, holding lightly to the things of this world and firmly to the hope of Christ. As Paul reminds us, the form of this world is passing away—but our hope in God endures forever.

Apply: We can’t make every decision based on the principle that Jesus might return tomorrow. But are there areas in your life where resources of time, possessions or money need to shift away from the world and toward eternity?

Devote: Jesus, help me to honour you with what you have entrusted to me. Give me wisdom and guidance to live as a citizen of heaven, not earth.