LIVING WORD DEVOTIONAL
By Pastor Mensa Otabil
 
Thursday 8th January 2026

SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITY

Scripture Reading: John 4

Do you not say, 'There are still four months and then comes the harvest'? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! John 4:35

Most of us are familiar with the often-repeated quote of the 18th-century English poet and dramatist, Edward Young - ‘Procrastination is the thief of time’. To procrastinate is to postpone or put off doing something you intend to do.
 
In today’s scripture, Jesus exhorts His disciples to change their perspective of the conditions around them and to take the initiative to seize the ripe opportunities. He says to them, ‘The fields are already white for harvest’.
 
Many times, we miss out on great opportunities because we fail to act at the most opportune time. We keep deceiving ourselves that there will always be enough time for us to do the things we want to do.
 
Sometimes, actions that should have been taken remain untaken for days, months, years and decades till, sadly, we grow old and tired. Only then do we realise that we have not made the most of our time on earth.
 
Procrastination can be caused by over-confidence, laziness, fear or indecision. It is fed by our excuses. When we accept God’s challenge and ask for His help, He gives us the power to jump over seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
 
Remember that although the year is still young, it is already eight days old. ‘The fields are already white for harvest’. Get in and start harvesting.
 
Do not postpone till tomorrow, the things that you must do today.
 
Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help me to do the things I must do. Quicken me by your Spirit to be firm in my actions. In Jesus’ name, Amen.