A Prayer to Seize the Day - Your Daily Prayer - May 2

A Prayer to Seize the Day
By Vivian Bricker 

Bible Reading:
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16). 

Listen or Read Below:

I was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer last summer. Ever since I received this diagnosis, I have struggled with deep sorrow, worry for the future, and the heavy weight of coping with death. For a few weeks after my diagnosis, I had a grim outlook on life. What was the point in doing anything if there was a chance this cancer could take my life? 

After praying and presenting my concerns to the Lord, I realized I could not continue living like this. There was no way I could properly serve Him if I couldn't find meaning in life anymore. God helped me to change my perspective.

I had to cope with the reality of life or death. Even if I pass away from this cancer, I would be okay. God will be with me every step of the way. The Apostle Paul tells us, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord” (Romans 14:8). 

Applying this truth to my life helped me to understand the importance of seizing the day. Life is too short to waste on trivial matters. I started meeting up with friends I had not seen in years, traveling to new destinations, and began healing from wounds I had carried since childhood. Jesus died for us to have an abundant life—not a joyless life full of bitterness, disappointment, and pain (John 10:10). 

Do you feel like you are seizing the day? You may be going through each day on autopilot. This is normal if you have gone through a traumatic experience. Challenge yourself to bring all your concerns to the foot of the cross. Talk with the Lord in prayer, cast your cares on Him, and allow Him to change your heart (1 Peter 5:7). 

Paul tells us, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16). Ephesians 5 centers on living as children of the light (Ephesians 5:8-14). As children of the light, we must be careful of how we live. We do not need to live as fools who exist for our own pleasures, joys, or even sorrows. 

Paul challenges us to make the most of every opportunity. This means we are to seize the day. We should look for small ways we can bring glory to God in our interactions with others. If a friend is going through a divorce, are we going out of our way to help them? Perhaps a family member has fallen on tough times and cannot pay rent this month. What are we doing to help our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ? 

We can seize the day by faithfully following God. Our days will feel purposeless and empty if we live for the sinful flesh. Paul is clear that “the days are evil,” meaning the sinful world is already trying to divert our attention to trivial matters. Choose to make the most of every day by living for God, loving others, and obeying the Bible. This will ensure your life is full of purpose, meaning, and the work of God.

Let's Pray:

Dear God,

I often feel as though I am wasting my life. There are many things that try to beg for my attention, but they only distract me from You. As a child of light, I want to live, obey, and serve You with complete devotion. I do not want my sorrow or my sinful flesh to rule my heart. My life is meant for You—and You alone. Help me to be the hands and feet of You to the world. 

Give my life purpose and meaning. This will help me seize every moment. When someone is struggling, soften my heart to help them. When I'm tempted to say something I will regret later, fill my heart with conviction. In everything, teach me to number my days and to know that my life is in Your hands.

Help me to faithfully serve You all my days. Ensure the workings of my life are in alignment with Your will. Amen.

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Vivian Bricker obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, followed by a Master of Arts with an emphasis in theology. She loves all things theology, mission work, and helping others learn about Jesus. Find more of her content at Cultivate.

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