UTILISE OPPORTUNITIES

Luke 23:39-43

One of the criminals hanging beside him scoffed, “So you’re the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself—and us, too, while you’re at it!”

But the other criminal protested, “Don’t you fear God even when you have been sentenced to die?

We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn’t done anything wrong.”

Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.”

And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

We see life and death displayed by choices made. What do we do with the opportunities we have? These two individuals show us the need to use opportunities rightly. 

They had the opportunity to talk with God face to face one used the opportunity to obtain eternal favour the other preferred to join the mockers, they just wanted earthly salvation/gratification thus they lost out.

Today what do we do with the release of God in our lives, what have we done with the Holy Spirit. There was a time when people were easily deceived that the power of God could be hidden in elementals, water, handkerchiefs, oils etc. We begin to wonder where they got that from, definitely not from the scriptures.

Money exchanging hands for God’s power to flow. Where did they get that from? Definitely not from Christ or His apostles.

What have we done with our opportunity with God?

Have we established eternity or sought for earthly gain alone? Selah

See the way Paul puts it:

Philippians 3:17-19

Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example.

For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ.

They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth.

But what should we do as good stewards, what do we wait and long for? :

Philippians 3:20-21

But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.

He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control.

How many are still taking advantage of the opportunity to live the victory we have in the Spirit?

What of opportunities that come our way here on earth?

The one key to taking advantage of these opportunities is "preparations". Are we making good use of our most precious asset - Time?

It would be difficult to take advantage of good opportunities if you are not prepared. That great job could only be yours if you are qualified and trained for it. That business opportunity will succeed for you if you have prepared to manage it properly. That sudden interest boom would be yours if you have actually invested wisely.

It could be as little as building up the right character to be a good spouse, leader, pastor or even government head. People like Joseph and Daniel were well prepared to be leaders even in the land of captivity so much that kings could do nothing without them.

We must make good use of the opportunity we have.

How is your prayer life, are we taking full advantage of the Holy Spirit guidance?

Help us Good Lord.

PRAYER

Loving Father, help us reap the fruits of our connection with You. Help us to make good use of time. The blessings will come both here and in eternity, we will be found worthy. Yes we have victory. Glory to Your name Lord forevermore.

We have victory.

Love

@the watcher