Squander Not This Opportunity

Gary MacPherson states that those called by God to a unique relationship with him must not squander that precious opportunity. God has given us a second chance. There are things we are obliged to do in response. The first step is repentance; to be conscious-stricken about our sins, and indeed our very nature. We must desire a total change of mind and heart, and turn from our natural self-centered attitude to emulate Christ’s selflessness. The second step is giving our lives to God; letting Him use us as His instrument, for His purpose. Christ and the Father bought and paid for our lives, and we owe them no less than our total self-sacrifice, akin to Christ’s. The third step is conversion; turning around and actively going the other way. We cannot discern the “Way” by ourselves. It is revealed to us by God, and is manifest in our lives as love toward God and love toward fellow-man. God will complete His work in us, and we can take comfort in His commitment to that process. God called us for His purpose, and will see it accomplished. That purpose is that we be part of His eternal family.

Keywords:
Acts 2:37-38 – Calling – Conversion – Repentance – Psalms 143:8 – Squander – Responding to God – Submission to God – Being Spirit Led – God Centered Life – Philippians 1:6 – God’s promise to complete us – Change – Overcoming – Developing righteous character – Redeeming the time.