Time

In A.W. Tozer's book Man: The Dwelling Place of God, there is a reference to an Associated Press story about a British nobleman who died at 89 years of age. He had inherited great wealth and therefore was free to do whatever he pleased. According to the article, he "devoted his life to trying to breed the perfect spotted mouse." Think of it! Rather than using his privileged position in life, with its potential for serving the Lord and for ministering to human need, both material and spiritual, he devoted himself to perfecting spotted mice. No mention was made of this being a scientific experiment to benefit mankind. It seemed to be no more than a novel pursuit to satisfy his narrow interest.

Now, let's make this personal. When our life's work is ended, will we have to say, "Then I looked on all the works that my hands have done and …indeed all was vanity"? Or will we be able to say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness"? (2 Tim. 4:7, 8). We can if we put God first in all we do.

-Sermons Illustrated July/August 1990