We live in a world focused on today, the here and now.
Our modern culture is obsessed with instant gratification. From one-click shopping to binge-watching entire TV series, we rarely pause to appreciate the moment or to wait for anything.
The average attention span has shrunk to mere seconds, like a hummingbird or bumble bee buzzing from place to place. Our eyes jump from one notification to the next, never present in any one place for more than a few seconds.
Yet, as followers of Jesus, we’re invited into a different perspective — one stretching far beyond the present. God reminds us, this life is not all there is. Eternity is written into our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11). Understanding and accepting this changes everything.
My father impressed on several of his children: every decision he made, was made with consideration of how it would impact where he woke up after his last breath on earth. Would he be in heaven or hell?
In short, every decision he made was made with Eternity in mind.
When we bring Eternity into any decision, the decision gets much simpler, because we are bringing God into the decision. There simply are fewer options for consideration.
Rather than scrambling to evaluate endless options, our choices are limited.
The ten commandments set the basic guidelines for what is right and wrong. Honor the Sabbath. Do not take God’s Name in vain. Honor your mother and father. Do not lie. Do not steal. Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not covet.
God has given additional principles for living life. Love your enemies. Think of others more than yourself. Forgive seventy times seven.
These principles and actions are aligned with GOD’s eternal character.
The ultimate question is: “Do we trust God?”
As our provider?
To fill our life with joy and peace?
Do we believe God loves us and has our best interest at heart in every directive He gives us?
Do we see God far above us in every way? Especially in knowledge and wisdom.
Bringing God (Eternity) into our decisions means we only consider options aligned with His commands.
We are created in the image of God. Thus, as we get to know God better, we align our actions more and more with His character.
We ask questions like:
What would Jesus do?
How will my actions impact another for Eternity?
How can I help others come to know the One True and Living God?
From dust we were made, to dust we will return. All things of this world will pass away.
If we take this seriously as we age, spending impulsively, pursuing earthly pleasures, being consumed by entertainment and distractions, has less and less appeal.
The more Eternity shapes our thinking, the more we realize, every decision is a God decision. Every word we speak, every choice we make, every dollar we spend — every decision is an opportunity to bring glory to God.
So, as we live in today, let us keep Eternity in mind. Let us include God in the here and now and look forward to living for His glory forever.
