Timing is everything. How many times have you either heard or used that line? Timing is essential in many parts of life–telling a joke (a clean one, of course), buying or selling stock, asking for a raise, starting a family, cooking that perfect steak, etc. So much of the flow in our lives depends on understanding and taking advantage of proper timing.

What role does timing play in your spiritual life? Obviously, timing played a factor when you obeyed the Gospel, but what about in your normal, daily Christian walk? Have you ever used timing as an excuse? “I’ll do _____ later.” “I’ll work with _____when I’ve got more time.” “I’ll have time to do more _____ when I’m retired.” Too many times we pass on opportunities to grow, opportunities to serve, and we blame it all on timing.

One author put it this way:
Some people believe that growth is like a series of steps: first you teach them for several months, then you put them in a training program for a while, then finally you give them some service opportunities. I don’t believe that. I believe that as every baby is born with everything it will need as an adult, except in a smaller form, so, too, every child of God is reborn with everything he or she needs to grow and serve Christ.

Another author said it even better: “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone…” (Gal. 6:10). Mordecai taught Esther about timing (Est. 4:14), Jesus understood timing ( John 2:4), Paul wrote to the Ephesians about it (Eph. 5:16), and God certainly demonstrated the greatest use of timing (Rom. 5:6). The best time to serve is now. Use the gifts God has given you and the opportunities He lays at your feet every day. Don’t wait until you’re older, wiser, or more settled–that’s just an excuse! It’s time to get to work!