Time

TIME

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ecclesiastes 3:1

"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven."

Supporting Texts: Psalm 90:12, Ephesians 5:16, Colossians 4:5, James 4:14, 2 Corinthians 6:2

INTRODUCTION

Time is one of the most valuable resources given to mankind. Every person, regardless of status, is given the same 24 hours in a day. The difference between success and failure, fulfilment and regret, is how we use our time.

The Bible speaks a lot about time—there is a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to harvest. Time determines seasons, opportunities, and destinies. Those who understand the value of time make wise decisions, but those who waste time end up with regrets.

God has a purpose for every time in our lives, and we must learn to use it wisely to fulfil our divine assignment.

1. TIME IS A PRECIOUS GIFT FROM GOD

Time is not a product of human invention; it is a divine gift.

Psalm 90:12 – "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Many people live carelessly as if they have unlimited time, but time is short and must be used wisely.

Every second, minute, hour, and day is an opportunity to draw closer to God, serve others, and fulfil purpose.

A person who wastes time is like someone who throws away gold—it can never be recovered.

Biblical Example:

King Hezekiah valued time when God extended his life by 15 years (Isaiah 38:1-5). He realised the importance of making every moment count.

2. TIME IS LIMITED AND CANNOT BE REVERSED

Unlike money or material things, time cannot be regained once it is lost.

James 4:14 – "What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes."

Life is short, and every moment must be used wisely.

Many people waste time on things that have no eternal value, but one day, we will all give an account of how we spent our time.

Wasted time leads to missed opportunities and unfulfilled destinies.

Biblical Example:

The five foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 missed their opportunity because they did not prepare on time. Their delay cost them their place at the wedding feast.

3. REDEEMING THE TIME – MAKING THE MOST OF EVERY OPPORTUNITY

God wants us to use our time wisely by focusing on things that have eternal value.

Ephesians 5:16 – "Redeeming the time, because the days are evil."

Every day is an opportunity to grow spiritually, bless others, and make a difference.

Instead of spending hours on distractions and unproductive activities, we must invest time in prayer, studying the Word, and fulfilling God’s purpose.

Redeeming the time means living with urgency, purpose, and intentionality.

Biblical Example:

Jesus accomplished His mission in just over 3 years of ministry because He made every moment count (John 9:4). He understood that time is limited.

4. GOD CONTROLS TIMES AND SEASONS

Although we must use time wisely, we must also understand that God controls the seasons of our lives.

Daniel 2:21 – "He changes times and seasons; He deposes kings and raises up others."

There are times of waiting, times of breakthrough, times of trials, and times of blessings.

We must learn to discern divine timing and trust God’s process.

Many people run ahead of God or delay obedience, but God’s timing is perfect.

Biblical Example:

Abraham and Sarah had to wait for God's appointed time before Isaac was born (Genesis 21:1-2). God's timing always brings the best results.

5. NOW IS THE TIME TO ACT

Many people procrastinate and delay making important decisions, thinking they have more time. But the best time to act is NOW.

2 Corinthians 6:2 – "Now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."

Time waits for no one—whatever God has placed in your heart to do, do it now.

Whether it is salvation, repentance, service, or pursuing God’s purpose, tomorrow is not guaranteed.

The greatest tragedy is when people realise too late that they wasted their time on things that do not matter.

Biblical Example:

The rich man in Luke 16:19-31 realised too late that he had wasted his life. He wished for another chance, but time was up.

CONCLUSION:

Time is a gift, but how you use it determines your future.

Are you investing your time in things that matter?

Are you spending time growing spiritually, serving others, and fulfilling God’s purpose?

Are you prepared for eternity?

God is calling us to redeem the time, make wise choices, and live with a sense of urgency. Time is running out—what will you do with the time you have left?

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, teach me to number my days and use my time wisely.