Carpe diem is a Latin phrase that means "seize the day." I first remember hearing this phrase from Robin William's character in the movie "Dead Poets Society," but carpe diem comes from the Roman poet Horace's work "Odes" (23 BC). The entire line is "carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero," which can be translated as "seize the day, put very little trust in tomorrow."

The phrase is misused by some to justify a spontaneous, care-free, YOLO (you only live once) lifestyle. "Don't worry about tomorrow! Seize the day!" However, we are told that Horace was not saying that we should ignore the future, but that we should not leave the future to chance. Instead of blindly trusting that everything will be well for us in the future, we should use today to make sure we have the best future possible.

The Scriptures certainly agree with this approach to life. Tomorrow is not a promise (James 4:13-17). "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" (Ps. 118:24).

We are to make the proper use of today by redeeming the time. "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil" (Eph. 5:15-16). We "seize the day" by making the most of every opportunity we have to do good. Are you making the most of the day God has given you?

We are to make the proper use of today by securing our eternal salvation. "For He says: 'In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.' Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation" (2 Cor. 6:2). Obedience to the gospel is not something that should be put off until a more convenient time (Acts 24:25). "And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord" (Acts 22:16). Do not delay. "Seize the day" by becoming a Christian!