NIGHT IS COMING WHEN NO MAN CAN WORK
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: John 9:4
"I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work."
Supporting Texts: Ecclesiastes 12:1, Psalm 90:12, Ephesians 5:15-16, 2 Corinthians 6:2
INTRODUCTION:
Time is one of the most precious gifts from God, yet it is also one of the most easily wasted. Jesus made a profound statement in John 9:4, reminding us of the urgency of fulfilling God's purpose while we still have the opportunity. He recognised that there is a limited window for work, after which it will be too late.
The "day" in this scripture represents our time of opportunity—our lifetime, our strength, and our ability to serve God and impact lives. The "night" signifies a time when opportunities will be gone—either through old age, death, or the end of time itself. Many people live as if they have unlimited time, postponing their commitment to God and their divine assignment.
As believers, we must have the mindset of urgency in serving God. We must work diligently while it is still day because a time is coming when no effort, repentance, or service will be possible. Let us examine the different aspects of this divine urgency and how we can make the most of the time God has given us.
1. THE URGENCY OF FULFILLING GOD’S PURPOSE
Time is limited, and we must fulfil our divine assignment before it is too late.
a) God has given everyone a purpose to fulfil – Each of us was created for a specific mission (Jeremiah 1:5).
b) Procrastination is a tool of the enemy – Delaying obedience leads to missed opportunities (Proverbs 27:1).
c) Life is unpredictable; we do not know how much time we have – We must act now (James 4:14).
d) True fulfilment comes from doing God’s will – Jesus found satisfaction in completing His assignment (John 4:34).
e) Biblical Example: Paul understood the urgency of his mission and worked tirelessly to spread the gospel (Acts 20:24).
2. THE NIGHT REPRESENTS A TIME OF LOST OPPORTUNITIES
A time will come when opportunities to work, repent, and serve will be over.
a) Death is the ultimate night for every man – No one can serve God after leaving this world (Hebrews 9:27).
b) Old age can limit what we can do for God – Youth is the best time to serve (Ecclesiastes 12:1).
c) The rapture will bring an end to labour on earth – Those unprepared will face regret (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
d) Hardened hearts will no longer hear God's voice – Those who reject Christ may be given over to their ways (Romans 1:28).
e) Biblical Example: The rich fool thought he had more time, but his life was taken suddenly (Luke 12:16-20).
3. MAXIMISING THE DAY: WORKING WHILE THERE IS TIME
We must seize every opportunity to do good, serve God, and impact lives.
a) Seek first the kingdom of God – Prioritising God’s work ensures lasting rewards (Matthew 6:33).
b) Use your gifts and talents for God’s glory – Every believer has something to offer (1 Peter 4:10).
c) Win souls while you still can – Evangelism must be a priority (2 Corinthians 5:20).
d) Live each day with eternity in view – We must focus on things that have eternal value (Colossians 3:1-2).
e) Biblical Example: Jesus went about doing good, healing the sick, and fulfilling His mission before His crucifixion (Acts 10:38).
4. THE CONSEQUENCES OF WASTED TIME
Those who fail to redeem the time will face consequences in this life and eternity.
a) Regret and sorrow for lost opportunities – Many will wish they had done more for God (Matthew 25:30).
b) Missed blessings and rewards – God rewards those who diligently serve Him (Hebrews 6:10).
c) Unpreparedness for eternity – Some will stand before God ashamed (2 Corinthians 5:10).
d) The danger of spiritual complacency – Laziness in God's work leads to loss (Revelation 3:15-16).
e) Biblical Example: The unprofitable servant buried his talent and was cast into outer darkness (Matthew 25:24-30).
5. HOW TO REMAIN SPIRITUALLY ALERT AND ACTIVE
To make the most of our time, we must be spiritually sensitive and diligent.
a) Live with a sense of urgency and purpose – We must be intentional about serving God daily (Romans 13:11).
b) Stay connected to God through prayer and His Word – A vibrant relationship with God keeps us focused (Joshua 1:8).
c) Engage in consistent soul-winning and discipleship – Bringing others to Christ is our primary mandate (Matthew 28:19-20).
d) Be filled with the Holy Spirit for divine empowerment – The Holy Spirit gives strength for the work (Acts 1:8).
e) Biblical Example: Nehemiah refused to be distracted and remained focused on rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 6:3).
CONCLUSION:
Jesus’ words remind us that we do not have unlimited time to serve God and impact lives. Night is coming when no man can work—whether through death, old age, or the return of Christ. Now is the time to be diligent, to seek God, and to do His will wholeheartedly.
May we not be among those who regret their wasted opportunities, but rather, may we hear the Lord say, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Let us arise and work while it is still day!
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to make the most of my time and serve You wholeheartedly.
2. Father, deliver me from procrastination and distractions that waste my life.
3. Holy Spirit, empower me to work for Your kingdom with urgency and diligence.
4. Lord, open my eyes to every divine opportunity and help me not to miss my season.
5. Father, may I fulfil my purpose and finish well in Jesus’ name.
