All Things Pass

It is good to be reminded of the transitoriness of all things. Even our own plans and efforts are temporary and will inevitably fade. We should reflect on this truth every time we lose something, every time something breaks, and every time we fail to accomplish what we intend. Let each such moment serve as a reminder that all things in this world are temporary.

We must also maintain this perspective when considering our efforts to influence others, the legacies we attempt to leave behind, and even our hopes for future generations. Everything into which we pour ourselves may soon, and inevitably will, vanish.

Only in this way will we have the right perspective. To have anything—or to influence anything—is a gift, never a guarantee. William Carey lost years of labor when a fire destroyed his translations and printing presses. I once read of a Russian author whose life’s writings were destroyed by the Communists for no reason other than petty spite. How easily we might pour our whole lives into a project, investing our best years and strongest efforts, only to have it taken from us in an instant.

Still, we should do it. We should invest and plan and create, yet always with the awareness that these things are not what matter most. Only the soul is truly invaluable and must not be lost. God is the keeper of our projects, and He alone knows how best to disperse our plans and how to guide the generations that come after us.

But godliness with contentment is great gain. (1 Timothy 6:6)

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