Every Opportunity
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity"
Ever
caught a dragon? I hadn’t until my son convinced me to download a game
on my phone. Producing a digital map mirroring the real world, the game
allows you to catch colorful creatures near you.
Unlike most mobile games, this one requires movement. Anywhere you go is part of the game’s playing field. The result? I’m doing a lot more walking! Anytime my son and I play, we strive to maximize every opportunity to nab the critters that pop up around us.
It’s easy to focus on, even obsess over, a game that’s crafted to captivate users. But as I played the game, I was convicted with this question: Am I this intentional about maximizing the spiritual opportunities around me?
Paul knew the need to be alert to God’s work around us. In Colossians 4, he asked for prayer for an opportunity to share the gospel (v. 3). Then he challenged, “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity” (v. 5). Paul didn’t want the Colossians to miss any chance of influencing others toward Christ. But doing so would require truly seeing them and their needs, then engaging in ways “full of grace” (v. 6).
In our world, far more things vie for our time and attention than a game’s imaginary dragons. But God invites us to navigate a real-world adventure, every day seeking opportunities to point to Him.
Unlike most mobile games, this one requires movement. Anywhere you go is part of the game’s playing field. The result? I’m doing a lot more walking! Anytime my son and I play, we strive to maximize every opportunity to nab the critters that pop up around us.
It’s easy to focus on, even obsess over, a game that’s crafted to captivate users. But as I played the game, I was convicted with this question: Am I this intentional about maximizing the spiritual opportunities around me?
Paul knew the need to be alert to God’s work around us. In Colossians 4, he asked for prayer for an opportunity to share the gospel (v. 3). Then he challenged, “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity” (v. 5). Paul didn’t want the Colossians to miss any chance of influencing others toward Christ. But doing so would require truly seeing them and their needs, then engaging in ways “full of grace” (v. 6).
In our world, far more things vie for our time and attention than a game’s imaginary dragons. But God invites us to navigate a real-world adventure, every day seeking opportunities to point to Him.
Reflect & Pray
When
did God use someone in an unexpected way to bring you into deeper
relationship with Him? When has He used you to impact someone’s life
during an ordinary day?
Jesus,
thank You that You’re constantly at work in the people around me. Help
me to make the most of every opportunity I have to demonstrate Your love
and grace.
I have had a few experiences in my life when God has used people. My best friends mom, used to speak over my life all the time. She did say something once that has stuck with me, she said "no weapon formed against me shall prosper" it was a verse about protecting yourself against the enemy. Those words have lived with me, and it's a shield I use daily to keep myself covered. God gave her those words, and spoke into my life in a season when I was working in LA in an environment that felt like God wasn't present, even though I know He was. He used me to speak to those that didn't know him.
ReplyDeleteI have been blessed many times with prayer time in choir class. It is amazing what "wisdom comes from the mouth of babes". Some of our students have a great relationship with the LORD and can articulate it! What a joy!!
ReplyDeleteAt the moment I am reading this devotion, I am stuck at home because of the shelter in place mandate due to the spread of Covid-19. Even though I am stuck at home, I have became more purposeful in reaching my students online with the technology that enables this. I am also noticing that during times of duress, students and adults are more open to hearing the gospel and discussing matters relating to GOD.
ReplyDelete