Move with intention, no matter your circumstances

There is a quiet but persistent voice many of us hear as we get older. It whispers that we waited too long, that we missed our moment, that what we have left to offer isn’t enough to matter. I hear that voice too. At 48 years old, I sometimes find myself discouraged by thoughts of lack—of time, of energy, of relevance. I wonder how much I can really do with the years I have left here and mourn the time that I wasted.

But when those thoughts start to creep in, I look to the Bible to find Jesus.

Jesus was likely born around 4–6 BC and crucified around AD 30–33, meaning His earthly life spanned roughly 33 years. What’s even more striking is that His public ministry lasted only about three years. In that short window of time, He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, restored the outcast, fed thousands with almost nothing, calmed storms with His words, raised the dead, challenged religious systems, discipled ordinary people, and ultimately gave His life for the salvation of the world. History was forever changed—not by decades of striving, but by obedience, purpose, and unwavering commitment to what He was sent here to do.

Jesus never hesitated because of age, opposition, or perceived limitations. He did not delay His calling because the time felt short. He moved with intention, trusting the Father with every step.

That truth confronts the lie many of us believe: It’s too late.

Scripture reminds us that these discouraging thoughts do not come from God. 2 Corinthians 10:5 tells us to “take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” This is why it is so important to read the Bible. Without knowledge of the scriptures, it is hard to understand what God wants us to do and how to handle challenges. John 10:10 warns us plainly that the enemy comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. Satan doesn’t always attack us with chaos—often, he distracts us with negative thoughts, self-doubt, and the belief that our time has already passed. If he can keep us stuck in hesitation, he can keep us from walking in purpose.

But God’s Word says something very different.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 declares that there is a season for everything under heaven. Not a season based on age. Not a season limited by past mistakes. Just a season—appointed by God. Philippians 1:6 reassures us that He who began a good work in us will be faithful to complete it. Completion implies continuation. It means God is not finished simply because we’ve reached a certain number of years.

I share this because I know I’m not alone. Many of us feel the nudge to do something—start the business, write the book, go back to school, serve, speak, create, heal—but we hesitate. We listen to the inner critic instead of the still, small voice of God. We measure our future by our age instead of by His power.

Jesus shows us that impact is not measured by length of time, but by obedience within the time we’re given. If you feel called to something today, do not delay. Do not wait for a “better” season. Do not disqualify yourself because of age, fear, or comparison. Those thoughts are distractions, not wisdom. God places purpose in us on purpose, and He redeems every moment we surrender to Him. No matter how old you are, no matter how much time you think you have left, what you do in obedience today can ripple far beyond your lifetime. Just like it did with Jesus. Ss show up. Step forward. Do what you feel you should do—without hesitation. God is still writing your story.

And if you need one final reminder to silence the negative thoughts and step forward in faith, hold onto this promise:

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” — Zechariah 4:10. God is not asking you to have it all figured out. He is not waiting for you to be younger, more confident, or more prepared. He rejoices simply when you begin. Every obedient step matters. Every yes counts. Every moment surrendered to Him is multiplied beyond what we can see. No matter your age, no matter how much time you think you have left, today is still full of purpose. And as long as God has you here, He still has something meaningful for you to do.