Give
Imagine receiving a letter that outlines every moment you have left to live. How would this knowledge change your daily routine? The truth is, no one gets a letter like that, yet we all share one certainty in life: we are going to die. While these words may sound harsh, acknowledging this reality can significantly alter how we experience each day.
Death is often seen as a taboo topic, something we’d rather avoid discussing. Yet, the inevitability of our mortality can create anxiety and fear that lingers in the background of our minds. How often do we get lost in the busyness of our lives, distracted from what truly matters? Ignoring our mortality doesn’t help us live better lives; instead, it leads us to waste precious time that we could spend cherishing relationships and pursuing meaningful goals.
Psalm 90:12 says "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." What does it mean to number our days? It’s about recognizing life as a precious gift, not an indefinite blessing. Too many of us drift through life, assuming we have endless time. But life is fleeting. When we understand how limited our time is, we tend to prioritize what really matters. Living wisely starts with a profound acknowledgment of our mortality. By focusing on what truly counts, our relationships, impacts, and personal growth, we gain a heart of wisdom.
Another crucial point is the importance of living with focus rather than distraction. James 4:14 reminds us, "You do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." It’s easy to fall into a routine of busyness, checking off tasks without pausing to consider if they align with our purpose. Whether it’s work deadlines or social obligations, these distractions can drown out our ability to reflect on what truly matters. What are distractions that keep us from investing our time and energy in things that hold eternal value?
Most importantly, it's important that we live in hope instead of fear. The thought of death can be incredibly daunting, and it’s tempting to let fear govern our choices. Yet, as followers of Jesus, we have a different perspective on what lies beyond this life. Philippians 1:21 states, "For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain." This is a profound truth that encourages us to view death not as a loss but as a transition to something incomparable. Tim Keller once noted that "death used to be an executioner, but the gospel makes him just a gardener." Rather than fearing death, we can find hope in the eternal promises of God. This faith drives us to live wholehearted lives, fueled by purpose and passion.
So how do we apply these insights to our everyday lives? Here are a few practical steps:
As we navigate the uncomfortable topic of death, let it propel us toward living a life filled with hope, focus, and wisdom. Embracing our mortality allows us to engage more profoundly with every moment we have. Our time is limited, but with this awareness, we can leverage our lives to make an impact.
If you feel compelled to explore more about living with purpose and hope, we invite you to join our community at Spring Lake Church. Engage in our upcoming events, join a life group, or reach out for support. Let’s walk this path together, encouraging one another to live fully and faithfully.
Click the video below to listen to the full sermon.
