Time, Prayer, and Gratitude in the Midst of Loss
I didn’t know which direction to take with this blog post. Like so many, I was deeply saddened by the passing of Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Though I didn’t personally know him, I grew up watching The Cosby Show, a groundbreaking series that not only shifted the landscape of entertainment but also had a profound impact on the Black community. As I watched the many condolences being shared, I couldn’t help but think about the incredible influence he had—not just within the Black community, but on the world of entertainment as a whole. His family has every reason to be proud and to celebrate the life he lived.
In reflecting on this, I was reminded of a sobering truth: time waits for no one. Time is a precious gift. Just as we don’t know the day or the hour when Jesus will return (Matthew 24:36), we also don’t know when God has appointed our time to leave this earth. We must make the most of every moment we are given.
Growing up, I would often hear adults say things like, “When I retire, I’m going to travel,” or “When I have more time, I’ll start doing the things I love.” But the reality is, we don’t know what tomorrow holds—let alone what the next hour might bring. Time is of the essence. Spend time with your family and friends. Take time to rest, to refresh your mind and spirit. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time; the time you have right now is a gift.
By now, you may be wondering, what does this have to do with prayer? The answer is everything. We should start each day in prayer, seeking God’s guidance and protection. Because we don’t know what lies ahead, we pray to activate the angels of the Lord to minister and war on our behalf (Psalm 91:11). Prayer is essential, not only for ourselves but also for those we love—especially those who don’t yet know Christ. We don’t know their appointed hour, but we can intercede for their salvation and safety.
Prayer doesn’t mean we will avoid every challenge or tragedy; God’s will always prevails. But I know this—prayer works, and God answers.
Walter Hawkins’ song “Thank You, Lord” comes to mind:
Tragedies are commonplace
All kinds of diseases, people are slipping away
Economies down, people can’t get enough pay
But as for me, all I can say is
Thank you, Lord, for all You’ve done for me…
Even in the midst of unexpected loss and uncertainty, we are called to live with a spirit of gratitude. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
So, let us cherish our time, live with purpose, and keep prayer as the foundation of our lives. We don’t know what tomorrow holds, but we know the One who holds tomorrow.
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About the Founder & Author:
Dr. Chavonne D. Stewart is a watchman, prophetic intercessor, and worshipful warrior; she carries a profound hunger and thirst for the Holy spirit. Guided by the word of Isaiah 6:8 NIV. In addition to her ministry work Dr. Chavonne is an experienced education specialist, consultant and author, known for her transformative work in leadership training and development. She focuses on coaching authentic women leaders. Dr. Stewart's dedication to education and leadership, coupled with her passion for travel and family, embodies her as both a professional and a role model and mentor for women.