The Gate — J Calaway — Make Today Count

‘Enjoy present pleasures in such a way as not to injure future ones.’ —Seneca

At its core, Seneca is talking about balance. Enjoy the now—the joys, the laughs, the little indulgences—but do it wisely, without sabotaging tomorrow.

Think about it: binge-watching all night might feel great in the moment, but it wrecks your energy for work the next day. Or splurging on impulse buys could bring instant gratification, but it hurts your financial future. Seneca is urging us toward mindful enjoyment, where today’s pleasures enhance, not erode, what’s ahead.

This isn’t just philosophy; it’s practical life advice. The Bible echoes this idea loud and clear.

God designed us to enjoy life’s pleasures—like good food, meaningful work, and rest—but in their proper seasons. Overindulging now, like skipping rest for endless hustle, injures our future well-being. Enjoy the gift of today, but honor the rhythm God set. (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

Enjoying present pleasures hastily—without planning—can lead to regret. But diligence? That means savoring today while building for tomorrow. Maybe that’s choosing a healthy meal over junk food, or investing time in relationships instead of scrolling endlessly. It’s not about denying pleasure; it’s about protecting future joy. (Proverbs 21:5)

We can enjoy liberties now, but if they enslave us—like addictions to social media, food, or even work—they injure our spiritual and emotional future. True freedom is moderation, where present pleasures serve us, not control us. (1 Corinthians 6:12)

Our choices today are seeds. Enjoy pleasures that align with the Spirit—kindness, gratitude, stewardship—and you’ll harvest a fruitful future. But sowing selfishly? That injures not just tomorrow, but eternity.” (Galatians 6:7-8)

How do we live this?

1. Mindful Moderation

2. Purposeful Planning

3. Reflect Rejoice

Remember God want’s us to enjoy the here and now. To live fully today, but not at the expense of tomorrow. So go live fully, and Make Today Count!