Living with Divine Awareness and Purpose by Understanding the Times
- caroline borishade
- Jul 16
- 2 min read
Today, more than ever, we are called to live with spiritual awareness. Life is full of responsibilities, events, and commitments, both personal and communal. Many of us even participate in planning activities that bless and build our local communities. And while it’s a good and necessary thing to be organised and intentional, there’s an even greater call: to understand the times we’re living in.
We’re introduced to a remarkable group in 1 Chronicles 12:32: “the children of Issachar, who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do.” These were people of discernment. They didn’t just know the what; they understood the when and why, and their wisdom helped guide an entire nation.
Jesus said in John 9:4, “I must work the works of Him that sent Me while it is day; the night cometh, when no man can work.” That’s a powerful reminder to all of us, not just to be busy, but to be purposeful. Time is precious. Seasons shift. And every season has its specific purpose under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
So, beyond knowing what’s on the calendar, are we discerning what God is doing in and through us in this moment? Are we aware of our personal and spiritual seasons, what to focus on, what to plant, what to prune, and what to pursue?
Here are a few ways we can walk in that Issachar type understanding:
1. Seek God’s wisdom daily. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you what season you’re in personally, spiritually, and even in your community.
2. Stay spiritually alert. Don’t allow routine to replace revelation. God speaks even in the familiar.
3. Priorities' alignment over activity. It’s not about doing more, it’s about doing what matters most right now.
4. Embrace each season with faith. Whether it’s a time of preparation, stretching, or harvest, trust that God is working it all for your growth and His glory.
5. Encourage others lovingly. Whether in your family, workplace, or fellowship, help others lean into God’s timing with grace and patience.
Let’s be people who don’t just mark time, but maximise it. Like the sons of Issachar, may we understand our times and know what ought to be done.
The night is coming, but there is still light. Let’s work with wisdom while it is day.
Prayer
Father, we thank you for the gift of time and the seasons you’ve appointed for every purpose under heaven. Like the sons of Issachar, help us to discern the times we are living in and to walk with wisdom, understanding, and purpose. Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom (Psalm 90:12).
Open our eyes to see what You are doing in and around us. Let us not be distracted by busyness or delay, but help us to align with Your will in every season. Strengthen our hands to do the work You’ve assigned while it is day, and fill us with boldness to act when You call.
May we be sensitive to Your Spirit, quick to obey, and faithful to finish what You’ve entrusted to us. And may our lives reflect Your glory in every moment we are given.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Written by: Caroline
Founder, Rise & Reclaim
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