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Evelyn Collins

Make the most of every opportunity


Several people's hands  holding a sign. Your vote matters, so make the most of every opportunity.

Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

                                                                         — Ephesians 5:15-17 NIV


In America, citizens may vote, which is one freedom that many countries don’t have. We have a rare form of government. My husband and I understand and appreciate the unique privilege of an American given the chance to voice their opinion. We don’t take it for granted, instead; we make the most of every opportunity. So after retiring, we began volunteering as election workers.


            During early voting, our polling location has several inspectors to greet and process voters. One particular day, the site was full of people. They formed lines in front of each inspector, waiting for us to process their ballots.


            “Good morning. How are you today?” I greeted the young man who approached my desk.        

            “Great, thanks,” he replied.


             I opened my hand expectantly. “May I see proper photo identification, please?”


            After verifying his registration, I handed him the ballot as I motioned to my right, where a row of booths was along the wall. “You may take your ballot to any open booth,” I said.


            He turned to the left with a massive grin on his face. He looked straight at his wife with great enthusiasm and planted a kiss on her lips. Then, he exclaimed, “Come on honey, let’s do it,” as he grabbed her hand.


            I will forever remember their broad grins and laughter as they rushed toward the booths to vote. Their hands clasped together as the husband tugged, and she skipped along.


A sign says: your vote your voice.

            Their thrill for the opportunity to vote made me realize how many people are indifferent to their chance to change the world. The prospect of shaping society with godly values is an admirable aspiration of great worth. One avenue for change is during elections. Our vote is our voice. Collectively, person by person, we determine the future of our country.


            The confidence of the young couple reminds us not to fear, but to remain encouraged because God promises us hope. When we dream with God and place hope in him, a better tomorrow is attainable. Matthew 19:26 says, With God, all things are possible. Our faith is not in the government or president; however, we have a responsibility to seize every opportunity given to us to say, “Yes, let’s do it. Win the world for Christ.”


Vote: yes or no

            This memory reminds me that the choices we make have the potential to transform our future. Like the word in Isaiah 40:31, “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” Also, our love and hope can change those around us. Last, we should seek every opportunity to spread the love of Christ to those we meet along the way as we trust God like the words in Romans 15:13 (NIV): “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”


Prayer:


Heavenly Father, I come into your presence with thanks and praise. Please forgive me for the times that my attitude does not align with your Holy Spirit or Word. Please, I need your help to keep my eyes fixed on you and not on this chaotic world. Open my ears so I clearly hear your voice and do your will here on earth. I know you will exceed my wildest imagination by far. Thank you for the knowledge that my hope is in you alone.


Your turn:


What are the aspirations that you have for your future that your faith and spiritual beliefs influence? What dreams and goals has God placed in your heart? Would you like to pursue your dreams, fulfill your purpose, and make a positive impact on the world?


Blessings


Evelyn Collins

1 Comment


smartin1259
Oct 19

As I was reading this it made me remember a conversation I had w a friend. He didn’t care if he voted or not. Knowing he was a veteran I asked him, “then why did you fight for our country?” He shrugged his shoulders and I asked to him to just think about it, because it’s a God given right in this country. I almost sent him this post…until I remembered he was a Democrat😉 🤣

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