MAKE YOUR LIFE COUNT

MAKE YOUR LIFE COUNT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 5:15-16; Psalm 90:12

Key Verse: “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” — Ephesians 5:15-16 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: Ecclesiastes 9:10; John 9:4; Colossians 4:5; Matthew 25:14-30; Philippians 3:13-14; 2 Timothy 4:7-8.

Description: Making your life count means living wisely, using your time purposefully, serving God faithfully, and leaving a godly impact on the people around you.

INTRODUCTION

Life is one of God's precious gifts, but it is also a responsibility. Every day we live is an opportunity to love God, serve humanity, fulfil our purpose, and make choices that have lasting consequences. Unfortunately, many people spend their lives pursuing things that cannot satisfy their souls, while neglecting the very things that give life eternal significance. At the end of life, the most important question will not simply be how long we lived or how much we acquired, but whether we lived faithfully before God.

In Ephesians 5:15-16, the Apostle Paul commands believers to walk carefully, not as fools but as wise people, redeeming the time because the days are evil. Paul understood that life must be lived intentionally. Time is limited, opportunities can pass, and the world is full of distractions that can pull us away from God's purpose. A wise believer therefore learns to evaluate decisions, manage time, cultivate godly character, and invest energy in what truly matters.

Making your life count does not necessarily mean becoming famous, wealthy, or widely celebrated. Some of the most meaningful lives are lived by people whose faithful service is known to only a few. A mother who raises her children in godliness, a worker who serves with integrity, a pastor who faithfully shepherds a congregation, and a believer who quietly helps those in need can all make their lives count for eternity. The goal is to live in such a way that God is glorified, people are blessed, and our earthly journey fulfils His purpose.

1. UNDERSTAND THAT YOUR LIFE IS A GIFT FROM GOD

Before you can make your life count, you must recognise that your life is not meaningless or accidental. God has given you life, abilities, relationships, opportunities, and responsibilities. These are gifts to be stewarded wisely, not resources to be wasted carelessly.

Understanding the value of life changes how you treat yourself, how you treat others, and how you use your time. You stop living merely to satisfy temporary desires and begin asking how your existence can bring glory to God.

a) God Is the Giver of Life (Acts 17:25)

Paul explains that God gives to all life, breath, and all things. Every breath is evidence of God's sustaining mercy. We may work hard, make plans, and pursue our goals, but our ability to live and act depends ultimately on God.

Recognising God as the giver of life should produce gratitude and humility. Instead of complaining constantly about what we lack, we should appreciate the opportunities and abilities God has already placed in our hands. Gratitude does not mean ignoring difficulties; it means refusing to let difficulties blind us to God's goodness.

Practical Application: Begin each day by thanking God for the gift of life and asking Him to help you use the day meaningfully.

b) You Were Created for a Purpose (Ephesians 2:10)

The Bible teaches that believers are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works. This means that our lives should produce something that reflects God's character and purpose.

You may not yet understand every detail of your calling, but you can begin by doing the good that God has already placed before you. Be honest in your work, faithful in your family, committed to your church, generous towards people in need, and willing to share the gospel. Purpose is not discovered only through extraordinary experiences; it is also fulfilled through daily faithfulness.

Practical Application: Identify the gifts, responsibilities, and opportunities God has given you, and begin using them to bless others.

c) Your Life Has Eternal Significance (Matthew 16:26)

Jesus asked what profit a person would gain by winning the whole world and losing his soul. His question reveals that earthly achievements cannot replace eternal life with God.

It is possible to become successful in business, education, politics, or ministry and yet neglect one's relationship with God. Achievements are valuable when pursued with integrity and placed under God's authority, but they must never become more important than the soul. Making your life count begins with being reconciled to God through Jesus Christ and living in the light of eternity.

Practical Application: Evaluate your ambitions and make sure that pursuing them does not cause you to neglect your relationship with Christ.

d) Your Life Is a Trust to Be Managed (1 Corinthians 4:2)

Paul teaches that stewards must be found faithful. A steward manages something that belongs to another person. In the same way, our time, talents, resources, influence, and opportunities are entrusted to us by God.

We must therefore resist the temptation to live carelessly. We should ask ourselves whether we are managing our gifts responsibly, treating people fairly, and using our opportunities for good. Faithfulness is not measured only by the size of what we possess but by how responsibly we use what has been entrusted to us.

Practical Application: Review how you use your time, money, abilities, and influence, and identify one area where you can become a more faithful steward.

Biblical Example: Joseph (Genesis 39:2-6; 41:38-41)

Joseph remained faithful to God while serving in Potiphar's house and later in prison. When an opportunity came to serve Pharaoh, his wisdom and integrity helped him fulfil an important responsibility. His life demonstrates that faithfulness in seemingly ordinary circumstances can prepare a person for greater responsibilities.

2. USE YOUR TIME WISELY

Time is one of life's most valuable resources because it cannot be stored, recovered, or relived. Money lost may sometimes be regained, and opportunities may sometimes return, but yesterday's hours can never be brought back. This is why Paul commands believers to redeem the time.

Redeeming time means using our opportunities wisely and making deliberate choices about what deserves our attention. It does not mean filling every moment with activity. It means ensuring that our activities contribute to godly living, meaningful responsibilities, personal growth, and service to others.

a) Recognise That Your Days Are Limited (Psalm 90:12)

Moses prayed, “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (KJV). Numbering our days means recognising that our earthly lives are limited and that we should live with wisdom.

When we understand that time is limited, we become more careful about unnecessary arguments, destructive habits, postponed responsibilities, and wasted opportunities. We begin to value relationships, spiritual growth, and meaningful service. Awareness of life's brevity should not produce fear; it should inspire purposeful living.

Practical Application: Ask yourself each morning, “What can I do today that will honour God and make a meaningful difference?”

b) Avoid the Trap of Procrastination (Proverbs 6:9-11)

Proverbs warns against the danger of laziness and repeatedly postponing necessary work. Procrastination often begins with small delays, but over time it can damage opportunities, relationships, and responsibilities.

Some people postpone prayer, education, reconciliation, business planning, or ministry assignments because they are waiting for a perfect moment. Yet perfection rarely arrives. Wisdom teaches us to begin with what we have, do what we can, and improve as we progress.

Practical Application: Choose one important task you have been postponing and take a practical step towards completing it today.

c) Set Your Priorities Right (Matthew 6:33)

Jesus commands His followers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. This means that God must have the highest place in our lives. Other responsibilities matter, but they should not displace our devotion to Him.

Many people are busy but not necessarily productive. They may spend their energy on activities that offer little lasting value while neglecting prayer, family, health, integrity, or service. Right priorities help us distinguish between what is urgent and what is truly important.

Practical Application: Plan your week around your spiritual life, family responsibilities, work, rest, and service, giving each its proper place.

d) Make Every Opportunity Count (Colossians 4:5)

Paul instructs believers to walk in wisdom towards those who are outside the faith, redeeming the time. Opportunities to show kindness, share the gospel, encourage someone, or make peace may not remain available indefinitely.

A conversation can become an opportunity to comfort someone. A workplace can become a place to demonstrate Christian integrity. A moment of difficulty can become an opportunity to show patience and faith. Wise believers learn to recognise the value hidden in ordinary moments.

Practical Application: Be alert to opportunities to encourage, help, reconcile with, or share Christ with someone each day.

Biblical Example: The Sons of Issachar (1 Chronicles 12:32)

The sons of Issachar were described as people who understood the times and knew what Israel ought to do. Their example illustrates the importance of discernment. Making life count requires more than being busy; it requires understanding the season we are in and responding wisely to its responsibilities.

3. DISCOVER AND FULFIL YOUR GOD-GIVEN PURPOSE

A life that counts is not simply a long life or a busy life; it is a life directed towards a meaningful purpose. God has given believers different gifts, responsibilities, and opportunities to serve. We must resist the temptation to compare our assignments with those of others and instead become faithful in our own calling.

Purpose becomes clearer as we walk with God, study His Word, serve faithfully, and pay attention to the responsibilities before us. We may not understand the entire journey at once, but we can take the next faithful step.

a) Seek God's Direction (Proverbs 3:5-6)

The Bible instructs us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not lean on our own understanding. When we acknowledge Him in all our ways, He directs our paths.

Human ambition alone cannot provide the wisdom needed for a meaningful life. We need God's guidance to determine how to use our gifts, what opportunities to pursue, and which desires must be surrendered. Seeking God's direction includes prayer, Scripture, wise counsel, and a willingness to obey.

Practical Application: Bring your plans before God and ask Him to direct your decisions according to His Word and wisdom.

b) Identify and Develop Your Gifts (1 Peter 4:10)

Peter teaches that each believer should use whatever gift he has received to serve others as a faithful steward of God's grace. Gifts are not given merely for personal recognition; they are given to contribute to the good of others and the work of God.

Some people have gifts in teaching, leadership, administration, hospitality, encouragement, craftsmanship, generosity, or practical service. Whatever your gift may be, develop it through learning, discipline, and faithful practice. An undeveloped gift may remain ineffective, but a gift cultivated with humility can become a blessing to many.

Practical Application: Identify one ability God has given you and take deliberate steps to develop and use it in service.

c) Be Faithful in Small Assignments (Luke 16:10)

Jesus teaches that the person who is faithful in little will also be faithful in much. Great responsibilities are often built upon small acts of faithfulness that others may overlook.

Do not despise the beginning of your assignment. The person who arrives punctually, serves honestly, keeps promises, and treats people with respect is developing the character needed for greater responsibility. Godly purpose is fulfilled through consistent faithfulness, not merely through occasional impressive achievements.

Practical Application: Give your best to the responsibilities you already have instead of waiting for a bigger opportunity before becoming faithful.

d) Run Your Own Race (Galatians 6:4-5)

Paul instructs believers to examine their own work rather than measuring themselves continually against others. Comparison can produce pride when we think we are ahead and discouragement when we think we are behind.

God has not given everyone the same abilities, opportunities, or assignments. Your responsibility is to obey Him faithfully with what you have received. Learn from others without becoming envious, and celebrate their progress without abandoning your own calling.

Practical Application: Stop measuring your worth by another person's achievements. Focus on becoming faithful to the responsibilities God has entrusted to you.

Biblical Example: David (1 Samuel 17:32-37)

Before confronting Goliath, David recalled how God had helped him protect his father's sheep from a lion and a bear. His experience in an ordinary assignment prepared him to face an extraordinary challenge. David's story teaches us that faithful service in small responsibilities can prepare us for significant opportunities.

4. BUILD A CHARACTER THAT HONOURS GOD

Making your life count involves more than achievements, possessions, or influence. Character determines the quality of our impact. A person may accomplish impressive things but damage others through pride, dishonesty, selfishness, or a lack of self-control. God desires our outward achievements to be supported by inward transformation.

Christian character is developed as we submit to the Word of God and allow the Holy Spirit to shape our thoughts, motives, words, and actions. A life that honours God should demonstrate love, integrity, humility, faithfulness, and self-control.

a) Walk in Integrity (Proverbs 10:9)

The Bible teaches that whoever walks in integrity walks securely, while crooked ways will be exposed. Integrity means doing what is right even when no one is watching and refusing to gain advantage through dishonesty.

Our integrity affects our families, workplaces, churches, and communities. People may forget our achievements, but they often remember whether we were trustworthy. A believer makes life count by keeping promises, telling the truth, handling resources responsibly, and treating others fairly.

Practical Application: Be truthful in your dealings and correct any dishonest practice that has become part of your routine.

b) Practise Love and Kindness (1 Corinthians 13:1-3)

Paul teaches that even impressive gifts and great sacrifices are of little value without love. Love gives our actions their proper spirit and purpose. It moves us to care for others, speak with grace, forgive, and serve without demanding applause.

A life that counts does not use people merely as stepping stones to success. It recognises their dignity and seeks their good. Small acts of kindness can have a lasting influence on people who are struggling, lonely, or discouraged.

Practical Application: Show deliberate kindness to someone who cannot repay you, and treat every person with dignity.

c) Cultivate Humility (Philippians 2:3-4)

Paul urges believers to reject selfish ambition and vain conceit and to consider the interests of others. Humility does not mean denying the gifts God has given us; it means using those gifts without pride or a sense of superiority.

Proud people may pursue recognition at the expense of relationships, while humble people remain teachable and willing to serve. Humility enables us to receive correction, acknowledge mistakes, appreciate others, and share credit for success.

Practical Application: Listen carefully when corrected, acknowledge your mistakes, and give others the respect and recognition they deserve.

d) Exercise Self-Control (Galatians 5:22-23)

Self-control is part of the fruit of the Spirit. It helps us govern our desires, words, emotions, habits, and responses. Without self-control, a person may waste time, damage relationships, misuse money, or destroy opportunities through impulsive decisions.

A purposeful life requires discipline. We must learn to say no to distractions, resist temptation, control anger, and remain consistent in our responsibilities. Self-control is not simply willpower; it grows as we depend on the Holy Spirit and practise wise habits.

Practical Application: Identify one habit that is wasting your time or weakening your character, and establish a practical plan to overcome it.

Biblical Example: Daniel (Daniel 1:8-20)

Daniel purposed in his heart not to defile himself with the king's provision. Even in a foreign environment, he remained committed to his convictions. His integrity, discipline, and wisdom became evident in his service. Daniel demonstrates that a life can make a lasting impact when character remains firm under pressure.

5. INVEST YOUR LIFE IN PEOPLE AND ETERNAL VALUES

A meaningful life is not measured only by what we acquire for ourselves but also by what we contribute to others. God calls us to love our neighbours, serve those in need, strengthen the church, and make disciples. These investments may not always bring immediate recognition, but they can have lasting consequences.

Earthly possessions and achievements are temporary. Relationships, godly influence, faithful service, and the spread of the gospel have significance that reaches beyond personal comfort. We should therefore ask not only what we can gain from life but also whom we can help through it.

a) Serve Others with Your Gifts (Mark 10:43-45)

Jesus taught that whoever desires to be great among His followers must become a servant. He Himself came not to be ministered unto but to minister and give His life as a ransom for many.

Godly greatness is not merely about position or public recognition. It is demonstrated through a willingness to meet needs, carry responsibilities, and serve others with humility. Whether your service takes place in the church, at home, or in the wider community, do it with sincerity and love.

Practical Application: Choose a practical way to serve someone this week without expecting praise or repayment.

b) Make Disciples and Share the Gospel (Matthew 28:19-20)

Jesus commissioned His followers to make disciples of all nations, baptising and teaching them to observe His commands. The gospel is central to the mission of the church and to the believer's witness in the world.

Making your life count includes helping others come to know Christ and grow in faith. You may share the gospel personally, support evangelistic work, teach Scripture, pray for unbelievers, or help new believers become established in the faith.

Practical Application: Pray for someone who does not know Christ and look for a respectful opportunity to share the gospel with them.

c) Give Generously and Help Those in Need (Hebrews 13:16)

Scripture instructs believers not to forget to do good and share with others, because such sacrifices please God. Generosity is an expression of love and stewardship. It reminds us that what we possess can become a means of bringing relief and encouragement to others.

Giving is not limited to money. We can give time, attention, skills, practical help, encouragement, and hospitality. A life of generosity resists selfishness and reflects the kindness of God.

Practical Application: Set aside some of your resources, time, or skills to help someone who genuinely needs assistance.

d) Leave a Godly Legacy (Proverbs 13:22)

The Bible speaks of a good person leaving an inheritance for children's children. Although inheritance can include material provision, a godly legacy also includes faith, wisdom, values, and an example worth following.

Think about what people will learn from the way you live. Will your family remember your integrity, prayers, love, and faithfulness? Will younger believers be strengthened by your example? A legacy is built through repeated choices, not merely through words spoken at the end of life.

Practical Application: Intentionally teach and model godly values to your children, younger believers, and those who look to you for guidance.

Biblical Example: Barnabas (Acts 9:26-27; 11:22-26)

Barnabas helped Saul gain acceptance among the disciples when others were afraid of him. Later, he encouraged the believers in Antioch and helped strengthen the growing church. His ministry demonstrates the lasting value of encouraging others, recognising God's work in people, and investing in their spiritual growth.

6. LIVE WITH ETERNITY IN VIEW

One of the most important ways to make your life count is to remember that earthly life is not the whole story. Scripture teaches that we will give an account to God. This truth should influence our choices, priorities, relationships, and use of opportunities.

Living with eternity in view does not mean neglecting earthly responsibilities. Rather, it means fulfilling them in a way that honours God. We work honestly, love our families, serve our communities, and pursue our assignments while remembering that our ultimate hope is in the Lord.

a) Remember That You Will Give an Account (Romans 14:12)

Paul teaches that every one of us shall give an account of himself to God. This reminds us that our actions matter even when no human being notices them.

We may sometimes escape human accountability, but we cannot hide our lives from God. The knowledge that we will answer to Him should encourage us to act with integrity, repent quickly, and use our opportunities faithfully.

Practical Application: Before making a major decision, ask whether you could honestly present that choice before God.

b) Store Up Treasures in Heaven (Matthew 6:19-21)

Jesus warned against laying up treasures on earth as though material possessions were permanent. He instructed His followers to lay up treasures in heaven, where earthly decay and theft cannot destroy them.

This teaching challenges us to examine what receives our greatest attention. Wealth and possessions can be used responsibly, but they must not become our masters. Investments in obedience, generosity, evangelism, godly character, and service reflect priorities that reach beyond earthly gain.

Practical Application: Use your money, time, and influence in ways that honour God and bless others rather than living only for personal accumulation.

c) Remain Faithful to the End (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

Near the end of his life, Paul declared that he had fought a good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith. His words reveal the value of perseverance. Paul had experienced hardship and opposition, but he continued in his calling.

A life that counts is not defined by a perfect beginning or the absence of difficulties. It is defined by faithful dependence on God through changing seasons. We must continue to trust Christ, obey His Word, and serve Him even when the journey becomes difficult.

Practical Application: Do not allow temporary discouragement to make you abandon your commitment to Christ. Keep walking faithfully.

d) Finish Your Assignment with Joy (Acts 20:24)

Paul said that he did not count his life dear to himself so that he might finish his course with joy and fulfil the ministry he had received from the Lord Jesus. He understood that completing God's assignment mattered more than protecting personal comfort at all costs.

Every believer has responsibilities that must be fulfilled in the season God has given. We should therefore avoid spending our lives on endless distractions while neglecting our spiritual and practical duties. Ask God for grace to complete the work He has entrusted to you.

Practical Application: Identify the most important responsibility God has placed before you in this season and take a concrete step towards fulfilling it.

Biblical Example: Caleb (Joshua 14:10-12)

At an advanced age, Caleb remained strong in faith and asked for the mountain God had promised him. He remembered God's faithfulness and remained willing to act. His story demonstrates that age and the passing of time do not have to destroy purpose. As long as God gives us life and responsibility, we should continue to serve Him faithfully.

CONCLUSION

Making your life count begins with recognising that life is a gift from God and that every day carries opportunities for faithful living. You must use your time wisely, discover and fulfil your purpose, cultivate godly character, serve others, and keep eternity in view. You do not need to be famous to make a difference. You need a heart surrendered to God, a willingness to obey His Word, and the discipline to use what He has placed in your hands.

Do not wait for tomorrow to begin living purposefully. Give God your heart today, correct what needs to be corrected, restore neglected priorities, and begin using your gifts to bless others. Let your life bring glory to Christ, strengthen your family, build His church, and touch the lives of people around you. When your earthly journey comes to an end, may you be able to say with confidence that you have run your race faithfully and fulfilled the assignment God gave you.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, teach me to use my days wisely, in Jesus name.

2. Lord, deliver me from wasting precious opportunities, in Jesus name.

3. Father, reveal and establish Your purpose for my life, in Jesus name.

4. Lord, help me develop the gifts You have given me, in Jesus name.

5. Father, build godly character in me, in Jesus name.

6. Lord, make my life a blessing to others, in Jesus name.

7. Father, give me discipline to fulfil my responsibilities, in Jesus name.

8. Lord, help me invest in things that have eternal value, in Jesus name.

9. Father, make me faithful until the end, in Jesus name.

10. Lord, let my life bring glory to Your name, in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You will not waste the life God has given you.

2. You will use your time wisely and fulfil your divine purpose.

3. You will recognise and maximise the opportunities God places before you.

4. You will grow in wisdom, integrity, and godly character.

5. Your gifts will become a blessing to many people.

6. You will overcome distractions and finish your assignments.

7. Your life will produce lasting fruit for God's kingdom.

8. Your family and community will be blessed through your godly influence.

9. You will remain faithful to Christ through every season of life.

10. You will finish your race with joy and hear the Lord's commendation, in the mighty name of Jesus.