June 1994
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This time of my life is one of great introspection.
In just a few weeks, I will be celebrating my 35th
birthday. As I reflect on the past 35 years, the
goodness and graciousness of God is clearly evident.
He was so good to me in giving me the parents that He
did, who taught me the truth of the Scriptures from an early age. He was so gracious in saving me at the age of twenty and in allowing me to enter into His service. He is so good to me in providing me with a wonderful wife and terrific children, and in giving me such a vibrant church to pastor. Truly, I have been blessed by the good hand of God.
The verse that keeps coming to my mind is Psalm 90:10: "The days of our years are threescore years and ten..." According to this passage, a man's life expectancy is seventy years. That means that in just a few days I will have used up approximately 1/2 of my expected time here on earth. Maybe God will be gracious, and allow me to have a longer life. Perhaps in His omniscience it will be best for my days to be cut short. However, the question on my heart is this: if half of my life is over, what have I really accomplished for eternity? How many souls which were bound for Hell are now headed for Heaven as a result of my ministry and soul-winning efforts? Have I really allowed God to use me to advance His kingdom? Have I grown in grace and knowledge, or am I stagnant in my personal walk with the Lord? If I stood before my Saviour today, would He say "well done, thou good and faithful servant"?
You see, half of my years of ministry are over. I can never reclaim them - they are forever passed. I must begin now to use this second half of my life for the Lord's glory. New challenges await, along with new trials. While my wisdom should be increasing, my physical vitality will be decreasing. Yet God is faithful, and He will use me, if I allow Him to. I pray that I will use the time I have left to the praise and honor and service of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
My friend, do you need to reflect on your spiritual accomplishments? Tell me, how have you been used of God these past years? Is God pleased with your service unto Him? May we covenant together as a church body to take whatever time God gives us and use it, as faithful ambassadors, to carry out His work in this world.
Your Pastor,
Mark J. Montgomery
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