January 2023 is a season of purging for me. I am so appreciative for all that have joined me on this journey of purging old things, thoughts, emotions, past experiences, and other things that no longer serve me. My intention was to make my first post about the things I've done so far January 1, New Years Day. However I was quickly reminded that we do not control time, God does.
After the many sent text messages, phone calls, hugs and kisses welcoming the new year, our family discovered that our beloved dog of 11 years, Carter, had tragically passed away. The details of the accident are not as important as the fact that we were quickly reminded, once again, we don't know how much time we have with the ones we love.
In my book, God is REAL... , I wrote, "The Lord holds time in His hands, and it is a gift to us." The chapter begins with the scripture, James 4:14-15. In this passage the Lord reminds us to acknowledge Him before making plans. So today, I pray that if it be God's will, I will share a post once or twice a week about my purging journey. I pray that we all learn from one another in this season, as the purpose for me is to let go of things that seek to steal my energy, my attention, my love, my faith, and especially my time because we don't know how much time we have together.
James 4:14-15 NIV 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”
I seek to rid myself of frivolous things that don't bring me joy, encouragement, love and understanding. I've already begin clearing material items from my home that I'll share in a future post. But today, let's take the time to pray for one another that we will appreciate the time we have today to bring happiness to ourselves and others. Let's no longer be fooled by the notation that we have time to do it tomorrow or next week. But much rather seize the time we have now; this moment. Make this time count so that we ultimately do that thing we are all here in this world to do. For me, I know that I am here to live out my God-given purpose so that my Heavenly Father may be glorified in my life the remainder of my days.
In honor of my faithful, loving family pet, Carter, I promise from this day forward to hug longer, love harder, cherish moments, and make memories. I seek to bring joy, a smile, love, and light wherever I go. I purge the notion that there is time to do the things tomorrow that God has charged me to do on this day.
The phrase "carpe diem" sincerely rings in my spirit today which means to seize the day. A simple example of how 'carpe diem' can be implemented is that, if you have a good opportunity to start a hobby that you're interested in, then you should choose to do so now, or as soon as possible, rather than wait and hope that someday in the future you'll have time for it.
Let's make haste! It's a new year and a new day. No more waiting until tomorrow to make it a great day today. Share with me in the comments, if it be the Lord's will, how will you honor your gift of time on this day?