Finite: Understanding Our Limited Existence

Something that is finite is restricted, it has definable limits. This world, as we know it, has a finite duration. The time is fast approaching when the end of the world will come (2 Pet 3:10). Depending on our rejection or acceptance of God's offer of salvation, we will spend eternity, our unending infinite existence – either with regret and pain because of sin – in the lake of fire or with untold blessing in heaven because we have been forgiven by the blood of Jesus.

The Nature of Finite Existence

God has set limits in every sphere of our lives: our lifespan, knowledge and wisdom (Job 14:5; 1 Cor 3:19). These boundaries are not arbitrary but purposeful, designed to draw us toward dependence on the One who knows no limits. Our finite nature reminds us that we are created beings, dependent on our Creator for breath, understanding, and purpose.

Satan has restricted ability, in comparison God has limitless ability and power. While the enemy of our souls operates within constraints imposed by the Almighty, God's sovereignty extends over all creation, seen and unseen. This distinction should bring comfort to believers, knowing that the One who fights for us is unconstrained by the limitations that bind all other beings.

The finite nature of our present world stands in stark contrast to the eternal realm that awaits. Scripture tells us that heaven and earth will pass away, but God's Word remains forever (Mt 24:35). This temporal existence serves as a testing ground, a brief season in which eternal destinies are determined based on one's response to God's grace.

Biblical Foundations of Finitude

Throughout Scripture, we find evidence of God's intentional limitation of human capacity. The tower of Babel narrative demonstrates God's sovereign restriction of human ambition when it seeks to exalt itself above divine authority (Gen 11:1-9). Similarly, the limitation of human lifespan to approximately 120 years after the flood (Gen 6:3) shows God's control over the boundaries of earthly existence.

The apostle Paul reminds us that God's wisdom far exceeds human understanding, declaring that the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom (1 Cor 1:25). Our finite minds cannot fully grasp the infinite nature of God, yet He has revealed enough of Himself through creation, Scripture, and ultimately through Jesus Christ to make Himself known to us.

James confronts the arrogance of assuming control over our future, reminding us that our lives are but a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes (Jas 4:14). This perspective on our finite existence should produce humility and dependence on God rather than self-reliance and presumption.

Eternal Implications of Finite Choices

The most profound aspect of our finite existence is that the choices we make within these limited boundaries have eternal consequences. Jesus taught that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). This invitation extends beyond the temporal realm into infinity, making our response to it the most significant decision we will ever make.

Scripture presents two eternal destinies determined by our acceptance or rejection of God's offer of salvation. Those who reject Christ face eternal separation from God in the lake of fire (Rev 20:15), while those who receive Him inherit eternal life in God's presence (Jn 17:3). These destinations are not temporary but everlasting, making the finite window of opportunity in this life incredibly precious.

The writer of Hebrews reminds us that it is appointed for people to die once, and after that to face judgment (Heb 9:27). This sobering reality underscores the urgency of responding to God's grace while opportunity remains. Our finite days are numbered, and each one brings us closer to the moment when time will give way to eternity.

Scripture clearly teaches that there is never any second chance given after death to reconsider the choice made during one's earthly life. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus illustrates this finality, as Abraham states, "between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us" (Lk 16:26). This irrevocable separation emphasizes the critical importance of making the decision for Christ during this finite window of opportunity.

Reflection and Application:

• How does recognizing your finite nature affect your daily priorities and decisions?
• In what areas of life are you tempted to rely on your own limited wisdom rather than seeking God's infinite understanding?
• What steps can you take to make the most of your limited time on earth for eternal purposes?
• How does the contrast between finite existence and eternal destiny influence how you share the gospel with others?

See: end times, eternal/eternity, infinite, mortality.