Five Ways to Redeem the Time
Updated: Nov 2, 2022
Welcome, friends, to another week. Don't be afraid, though there is much fear in our world. Those who are not true Christians, maybe unconcerned with today's events. However, as the Bible says, there are terror reports, rumors of more wars, nuclear scares, government instability, and false religions. Within "Christianity", there are those scaring others with false doctrines and ruling by fear. However, there is one fact, Jesus is still on the throne, and he will return to take true believers to Heaven when ready. Therefore, we know events continue to lead to Christ's return. However, we should not dwell on the world's insecurities but recognize it is part of God's plan. We do not want to miss continuing to love Christ for his sacrifice and spreading the gospel to all who will listen. Therefore, we have several jobs: First, continue spreading the gospel; second, attend church to hear God's word and assemble with other Christians. Third, read our Bibles to ensure no one deceives us and to draw closer to God. Fourth, pray for others. Finally, redeem the time by working for Christ. I have listed a few suggestions below. My list is not all-inclusive. I am sure many of you have thought of other ways to serve.
1. Spread the gospel. As Christians, God commands us to spread the gospel. When we tell others about the gospel, we become witnesses for Christ. We can share our conversion experience with others and tell them about the gospel of Christ. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. (Romans 1:16)
2. Attend church. The Bible commands us to meet with other believers, strengthening us through teaching and fellowship. The Holy Spirit moves during the service, as evidenced by crying, holding hands up, preaching, and conviction. Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. ( Hebrews 10:25)
3. Read our Bibles. Reading enables us to learn the character and deity of God. We read history from the Old Testament and salvation in the New Testament. When we read, we connect with God in a personal way. The word hides in our hearts. It protects and guides us. These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. (Acts 17:11)
4. Praying for others. Praying for others is powerful by showing our unselfishness and willingness to approach God on behalf of others. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. (James 5:16)
5. 5. Serving. Serving in church is fulfilling. It shows our heart toward God and his kingdom. Serving also keeps us strong in the faith, allowing God to use us as he sees fit. Finally, it provides a way to use the spiritual gifts God has given us. Gifts may include teaching, encouragement, outreach, Sunday School teacher or assistant, hospital or long-term care visitation, nursery assistant, cleaning crew, hospitality assistant, outreach team, choir, or music leader. Serving in any capacity contributes to the ministry.
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Ephesians 4:11-12
The reason for including salvation at the end is this: Many may not understand salvation but have heard it. Salvation is being saved from the wrath to come upon the earth. It is believing from the heart Christ died, was buried, and rose again on the third day. (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) It is also confessing with our mouths Jesus is Lord and believing God raised him from the dead. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. Romans 10:9-10 It's that simple. The second point is no one is perfect. All of us mess up. However, God assures us he is still on the throne by giving us grace daily.
I hope this blog is a blessing to all who search for Christ. His love is unmatched and will always continue. He offers salvation- no questions asked. I'd love to hear from you. Please email me at mailto:dorothy@savedheartfaith.com or mailto:dburrell38@yahoo.comI hope you have a great week. Please do not forget to visit YouTube for the shortened companion video to this blog. Thanks for stopping by.
