Making The Most Of Opportunities

MAKING THE MOST OF OPPORTUNITIES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 5:15-16

Supporting Texts: Colossians 4:5, Ecclesiastes 9:10-11, Galatians 6:10, 2 Corinthians 6:2, John 9:4

INTRODUCTION:

Life is a collection of moments and opportunities. Each day presents us with new chances to make decisions, take actions, and align ourselves with God’s purpose. According to Ephesians 5:16, we are admonished to redeem the time, because the days are evil. In other words, we must learn to make the most of every opportunity God presents to us.

Opportunities are often disguised in challenges, hidden in daily tasks, or clothed in the needs of others. Those who walk wisely, spiritually alert and purpose-driven will recognise these opportunities and maximise them. A wasted opportunity today can lead to a lifetime of regret, but a seized opportunity can usher in blessings for generations.

God does not give everyone equal possessions, but He gives everyone equal opportunities to seek Him, to serve, and to shine. Whether in business, ministry, relationships, or divine assignments, the way we treat opportunities determines the outcomes we will experience.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE NATURE OF OPPORTUNITIES

Opportunities are divine time-sensitive invitations to fulfil purpose.

a) Opportunities are often disguised as ordinary moments (John 4:7-10):

Jesus turned a casual encounter at a well into a life-transforming moment for the Samaritan woman.

b) Opportunities don’t last forever (Genesis 7:16):

When Noah entered the ark, the door was shut—delay would’ve meant death.

c) They may not look like what we expect (1 Kings 17:8-16):

The widow of Zarephath almost missed her miracle by underestimating her visitor.

d) Opportunities require prompt and intentional action (John 9:4):

Jesus said, “We must work...while it is day.”

Biblical Example: Esther seized the opportunity to save her people by boldly going before the king (Esther 4:13–16).

Opportunities are divine seeds that grow into testimonies when planted with faith and action.

2. HOW TO RECOGNISE OPPORTUNITIES

To maximise opportunities, we must first identify them.

a) Spiritual sensitivity is key (1 Corinthians 2:14):

The natural man often overlooks divine moments.

b) Walk in wisdom and discernment (Colossians 4:5):

Wisdom helps us to see beyond the surface of events.

c) Be led by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:14):

He will show you what door to walk through and what door to avoid.

d) Pay attention to recurring instructions or inner nudges (Acts 8:29–35):

Philip recognised his opportunity to preach to the Ethiopian eunuch.

Biblical Example: David saw a seemingly routine visit to deliver food become the opportunity to defeat Goliath (1 Samuel 17:17–50).

Recognition is the first step to maximisation; what you don’t recognise, you cannot utilise.

3. MAXIMISING OPPORTUNITIES WHEN THEY COME

Seizing the moment requires preparation, courage, and faith.

a) Be ready before the opportunity comes (Matthew 25:1–13):

The wise virgins had oil in reserve; the foolish missed their moment.

b) Act quickly when the door opens (2 Corinthians 6:2):

Now is the accepted time; hesitation can be costly.

c) Use every platform God gives you (Galatians 6:10):

Whether big or small, God expects you to be faithful.

d) Push beyond fear and uncertainty (Joshua 1:9):

Every divine opportunity will require boldness.

Biblical Example: The woman with the issue of blood didn’t wait—she pressed through the crowd and received her healing (Mark 5:25–34).

Opportunities increase when you act on the ones you already have.

4. CONSEQUENCES OF MISSED OPPORTUNITIES

Every ignored divine moment carries spiritual consequences.

a) Missed opportunities delay destiny (Numbers 13:30–33; 14:1–4):

Israel missed Canaan and wandered for 40 years.

b) Others may rise to replace you (Esther 4:14):

Mordecai warned Esther not to think she was indispensable.

c) Regret may follow when doors are shut (Matthew 25:10–12):

The unprepared virgins faced rejection after the door closed.

d) Delayed obedience is disobedience (Jonah 1:1–3):

Jonah's initial disobedience almost cost him his life and assignment.

Biblical Example: The rich young ruler missed eternal life by walking away from Jesus’ invitation (Mark 10:17–22).

When opportunities are not taken seriously, they can turn into closed chapters.

CONCLUSION:

Opportunities are divine gifts loaded with potential. Whether they come through people, events, or quiet moments of reflection, God gives them to position us for progress and impact. Recognising and maximising them is a hallmark of wise believers. It is not enough to hope for opportunities; you must be spiritually alert, mentally prepared, and ready to act.

Today, heaven is presenting you with doors of favour, growth, and divine assignment. Don’t sleep on your season. Don’t delay your obedience. Don’t let fear steal your moment. This is your time—seize it, step into it, and let God take you to new levels of fulfilment.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father, thank You for the divine opportunities You have given me.

2. Lord, open my eyes to recognise every opportunity You send my way.

3. I reject every spirit of fear and procrastination.