When God first created the world, not only did He create the visible Universe, He also created things which cannot be seen - such as the laws of nature, and time. Even though the Bible does not clearly explain when time was created, we see its presence everywhere, in the cycle of night and day, and in the changing of seasons. In God’s grand design, time also plays an important role. From the moment Adam and Eve were cast out of the garden, the pendulum of time started to swing, moving steadily toward God’s predetermined time of salvation.

Knowing the Time

Since ancient times, humans have always loved speculating over the future. Countless people have tried predicting the end of the world, most famous of which would be the prophecies of Nostradamus. This tells us that deep in men’s hearts, there is a desire to know where we are in this river of time.

The Bible gives us a clear indication: “it is the last hour” (1 John 2:18), and “now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed” (Romans 13:11). The present wars and natural disasters happening today are unfolding just as described in Matthew 24, telling us that Jesus’ returning is near. The Bible also tells us that the day of the Lord will come suddenly, at a time when we may feel safe and secure and think we have plenty of time left.

Redeeming the Time

Since we know the coming of the Lord is near, how ought we to lead our lives? Ephesians 5 tells us to walk circumspectly (carefully), as the wise (Eph 5:15). A wise person knows how to make preparations and to work hard for their own salvation. To cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light (Romans 13:12). To defend against the attacks of the devil and bear good fruits. Even if we live amidst an evil and dark generation, a wise person will seek for light, draw near to the light, and preserve himself in the light. We must redeem the time like a wise person and not let time flow by, making the most of it to work out our salvation. Whatever age we may be, we can all take steps in our faith. To grasp hold of opportunities to draw near to God, understand His words, and to be filled with His Spirit always.

When the clock strikes twelve, it will not be the time when Cinderella leaves the ball in haste. It will be the glorious revelation, the Lord’s appearing. When that day comes, how will we feel? Will we feel a hint of reluctance, unwilling to part from our present, seemingly splendid life? Or will we be filled with joy, eager to enter into the golden streets and jasper walls that God has prepared? 

Time waits for no man, but let us not dwell on time that has passed. We must seize the present, to live out the will of God with a heart of fearing Christ.