The term “seize the day” was first coined by the Roman poet Horace more than 2,000 years ago. Carpe diem – or ‘seize the day’ – is “one of the oldest mottos in Western history and there are a range of definitions for what it actually means and different ways to think about it; from seizing opportunities, to spontaneity, to hedonism, to being in the present moment, to facing death and feeling that you’re fully alive.
As it’s New Years Eve I have been thinking about how important it is to seize the day. Not with the thought of doing everything and anything; of only being in the present moment, or doing whatever feels good for tomorrow we may die, but in fact to live thoughtfully, purposefully and with great joy, taking hold of everything for which God took hold of us.
Rather than having a New Year’s resolution seize the day would perhaps more aptly mean for us to live with a life resolution, knowing what our life is about so we can then a go out each day seizing the opportunities God has given us every moment of every day.
When we live with the thought to seize the day and to make the most of every opportunity it motivates us, and at times even catapults us into being who God has called us to be. God doesn’t want us to live lives that are hesitant, fearful, or full of doubt and unbelief. He wants us to soar like eagles, to stand on the heights, to do mighty exploits for Him and to live our lives in such a way that people look and say “they are the ones that the Lord has blessed.” It does us no good to shrink back from who we are created to be, and it doesn’t help or encourage anyone else either.
Seizing the day is living with purpose, for when we have purpose and a life resolution we are far more likely to remain on the path God has set for us, to not get distracted or allow ourselves to be burdened with attitudes, sin, or negative habits which can hamper and slow us down. It is those people with no vision and reason to seize the day that wander aimlessly through life; not the one’s who know what and who they are in God.
Today I encourage you to not set a new years resolution, but instead seek and enquire of God what your life resolution is. If you have a heartbeat God has a plan and purpose for your life and amazing things for you to experience in Him. Don’t sit back being lazy or complacent with the life you have been given, but instead seize the day and endeavour to run your race well. Run into all that God has called you to be and do, seizing hold and making the most of the gift of each and every day.
“So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days.” (Ephesians 5:15-16)
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1)
Prayer: Lord thankyou for this day and for the life you have planned for me. Please help me to seize the day and every opportunity you place before me. I ask that you help me to run fully into all that you have for me and the vision and dreams you have placed in my heart. In Jesus name Amen.