Opportunity – God's Open Door

An opportunity is an occasion or opening that invites a response — a moment when God's Spirit prompts us to step forward in faith, and we must choose whether to embrace or neglect what He places before us.

Responding to God's Call

"Seek the Lord while He may be found" and respond to the promptings of His Spirit, because unless He calls us we cannot respond on our own initiative (Gen 6:3; Isa 55:6-7; Rom 3:11). Without His help, we do not approach in the way He instructs — in humility and through the blood of Jesus — so be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's gentle nudging (Isa 30:21; Jn 14:6). Be sensitive, keep your eyes open — for in our sinfulness humanity is at enmity with God, and our natural response is typified by that of Adam and Eve who, after disobeying, did not want to be in God's company (Gen 3:8; Rom 8:7; Jas 4:4). Satan also seizes the opportunity to deceive through a lack of knowledge of the truth or past events, so don't allow him the opening to bring you back into bondage (Rom 7:8,11; Eph 4:27; 1 Pet 5:8).

Believe in yourself, His plans for you, and what you can accomplish with Him. Understand the possibilities that are available to us as children of the All-powerful God, as we seek to make disciples of Christ by allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us, to do what He has decided should happen (Mt 28:19-20; Act 4:28). Attempt great things for God with consistent effort and, although there will be setbacks, keep your eye on the desired goal (Heb 12:2).

We are given the choice to use or neglect these occasions

Timing is also a factor — don't lag behind through fear or complacency, nor rush ahead of God's schedule, for He makes everything beautiful in its time (Eccl 3:11; Isa 60:22). Abraham lagged behind in responding to God's call and also rushed ahead by fathering Ishmael, both of which brought lasting consequences (Gen 16:1-4; Gen 21:8-12). Wait on the Lord and move when He moves, for the right opportunity at the wrong time is the wrong opportunity.

Preparing and Stepping Out

Be ready and prepared (through learning and training) to make the most of the opportunities you are given in life to let your light shine for Jesus, being a true representative of His by sharing about Him as appropriate (Mt 5:16; Eph 5:16; Col 4:5). See the potential that can result by stepping out in faith, moving beyond your comfort zone into an ever-increasing realm of effective service for God. David had increased in courage, confidence in God and ability by dealing with a bear and a lion before his victorious encounter with Goliath. Be actively involved in the Kingdom of God, experiencing continual growth, developing your skills and refining your talents, knowing many future opportunities are just the next step ahead as you faithfully do what is at hand now.

How many times have we failed to take the opportunity to share Christ with hurting humanity? Opportunities can easily pass us by and may not come again; some may have serious consequences such as "he who sleeps during harvest" (Prov 10:5). Every day we are presented with numerous opportunities to bless others or react selfishly, for opportunities always require a response — to accept and embrace, or decline and reject — yet so often we are unaware of the significance of our actions or lack of them (Mt 25:34-46). Problems are an opportunity for spiritual growth as we outwork the fruit of the Spirit if we deny the old life, and so bring glory to God by responding correctly (Gal 5:22-23). Paul used such situations not to wallow in self-pity but rather to demonstrate his devotion to God (Act 16:22-25; Phil 1:12-14).

It's too late to prepare when the opportunity comes

Serving and Seizing the Moment

"As we have opportunity, let us do good to all people…" (Gal 6:10). Volunteer your services, and seriously consider the requests of others when asked to do something or to help out — they obviously think you have what it takes! This will bless them while also enriching yourself. Serve faithfully and wholeheartedly, as unto the Lord, for who knows what doors will open as a result of our efforts. Remember, too, that increased opportunities also bring increased responsibilities (Gen 24:14; Prov 18:16; Lk 12:48). We serve God by serving people, and each act of faithful service positions us for the next door He will open.

Each day presents fresh occasions to demonstrate God's love and truth. Don't wait for the perfect moment — step forward in faith with what God has already placed in your hand, trusting that He will multiply your willingness into fruitfulness.

Faithfulness now opens doors for tomorrow

Reflection and Application:

Ask God to make you sensitive to the prompting of His Spirit, so you recognise and respond to the opportunities He places before you each day.
Identify one area where you have been hesitant to step out in faith — what preparation or growth might God be calling you to pursue?
Consider a recent problem or setback — how might God use it as an opportunity for spiritual growth and to demonstrate His power?

Examine whether you tend to lag behind in hesitation or rush ahead in impatience — ask God to help you discern His timing and move when He moves.