Living with a focus solely on the present will limit your existence to two inevitable results or experiences. These are described in Scripture as “Is that all there is” and/or “Why are you so depressed, O my soul.” What is needed is a broader periphery and a more expansive perspective. This can only be discovered by placing hope in God and by embracing His presence (known in Scripture as His “sanctuary” or “habitation”} This is where we learn to acclimate to the essence of “eternal life.” Our existence is much more than a random biological event with an ultimate and meaningless end.
Ephesians 2:10 says that we are “God’s workmanship.” This statement is pregnant with meaning! Every aspect of our personal design emerges from God’s craftsmanship, artistry, and creativity. The warp and woof of our being was intricately woven together in the mind and heart of God before we were physically conceived. Try to “conceive” that in your finite mind. He is the originator and author of our lives, and the only way that we can begin to realize this concept is to live intentionally and aggressively toward that which He has previously planned and purposed for us. In doing this we have the privilege and the opportunity to participate with the living God in His Kingdom. A unique paraphrase of this verse is as follows: “Okay, I have tucked My own personal genius within you. I have prepared works, and I want you to walk in them. I want you to figure out the nuanced way that I have put My creative spark into your heart. And I want you to go on a cosmic scavenger hunt to figure out what fills your heart with the passion that the world needs to hear.”
Romans 1:20 tells us in no uncertain terms that God has revealed more than enough of Himself so that all of humanity is without excuse when it comes to belief. As an infinite, perfect being there is no way that He could share everything about Himself. Instead of doubting God then, we should be overwhelmed by Him. We do not have the capacity to assimilate everything about Him, but we are given the opportunity to enjoy and explore Him, to love and worship Him. Consider again that God knew your complete design in eternity past. Presently your life consists of a recognition or an awareness of what He has already been doing to rescue you and to have a relationship with you. In His providence He will bring to completion His purposes for you until He guides you with His counsel and countenance into an eternal future. Even more, the destiny He’s planned for you will remain as a lasting legacy to those still on their journey.
Some passages for further encouragement: Psalm 138:8; 139:1-6, 16-18; 73:24; Jeremiah 1:5; Romans 8:28-39; II Corinthians 1:21-22; Ephesians 1:13-14; Philippians 1:6; Colossians 1:9-14; Jude 24-25.