When Time is Short

God makes everything happen at the right time. Yet none of us can ever fully understand all he has done, and he puts questions in our minds about the past and the future.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 (CEV)

Sometimes it feels like you aren’t going to be around long enough to make friends at a duty station.

Why bother if you are only going to know each other for a few months? Or why even practice with the team if you can’t be there for the competition? Who cares about going on the youth group retreat when you’re not going to see these kids again?

But God placed you here for this time. He is not surprised or held back by a short time. You will never know what God can do with that time unless you give him a shot. What does that mean? It means doing your very best in any opportunity God gives you. You can trust him to use it for his good plans.

So, choose to enjoy the new friend for a few months. Practice with the team, even if you will miss most of the season. Do what you can to improve the neighborhood, even if you don’t get to see the results. Then trust God for good outcomes, even if you never get to see them. Wait on his timing and watch how he blesses you. You can trust his perfect timing!

SPIRITUAL FITNESS TRAINING

Is there something or someone you admire? An awesome bridge or a piece of art? A great athlete or author? Research how long it took to build that bridge, write the book, or practice for the Olympics. Record the facts you learn in a journal or on some paper. And always remember that good things take time!

PRAY

Dear Lord, I choose to trust you. Help me make the most of my time where I am now.

KEEP IT GOING

Related passages: These additional verses will help you expand Scriptural knowledge and put on the armor of God’s Word to tackle each day. Tap to read the passages today.

Psalm 31:15

Psalm 90:12

Matthew 24:42

John 9:4

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This devotional was written by Tonia Gutting for the Hero Squad Program of the American Bible Society. Hero Squad provides complimentary faith-based resources to strengthen and encourage Military families through God’s Word. For more information or to enroll your Military family, check out our website.www.myherosquad.org.