Every Opportunity

By Lyli Dunbar

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”—Galatians 6:9-10 (NKJV)

Inventor Thomas Edison once asserted, “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”

The apostle Paul communicates a similar mindset in his epistle to the early Church by encouraging believers to show up ready to do the tough job of serving one another. We often think of opportunity as favorable circumstances merging and paving a brilliant pathway to success, but the Greek word opportunity here means “at the right time.” 

God has appointed us to sow seeds of kindness in dark places even on days when we would rather sit on the couch and take a break. We should always be alert for opportune moments, and we should stand ready to aid the people God has placed in our circle of influence.

God has granted us the privilege to partner with Him and make an eternal difference in this broken world. The enemy of our souls is relentlessly working to plant seeds of discord and discouragement among the body of Christ, and we must not be unaware of his schemes. We should wisely steward the spiritual resources God has given us and stay well-watered in the Word. If we do this, we can uproot the weeds of doubt and help one another grow strong in Spirit.  

If we have time and ability to help a brother or sister today, we should not shirk from the opportunity. Yes, rolling up our sleeves and doing the hard work of meeting another’s needs is often an exhausting task.  But Jesus set the example for us by bearing the weight of our sins on the cross at Calvary to save us. He finished His work well, and now we are called to follow His example and stay faithful in the field. 

What are you waiting for? The time is ripe, and the field is ready for harvest. All around you people are hungry for the Truth. Let’s purpose to make the most of every opportunity. We can take simple steps this week to share God’s Word and enrich this barren world with the seeds of God’s love and grace. 

DIG: Read Galatians 5:13-16 and Ephesians 5:8-20. What cautions does Paul communicate about stewarding your opportunities well? 

DISCOVER: Read 2 Corinthians 9:8-11. How will working hard to sow the seeds of the Spirit enrich your life?  

DO: Make a list of practical steps you can take this week to generously serve someone in need.