The phrase “carpe diem” is a Latin expression meaning “seize the day.” It encourages people to make the most of the present time and take advantage of current opportunities rather than putting things off for the future. On the surface, this philosophy seems reasonable – why not enjoy life and make the most of each day? However, a deeper look at Scripture reveals some important considerations for Christians regarding living by the carpe diem mentality.
The brevity and uncertainty of life
The Bible reminds us that life is short and uncertain. James 4:14 states that our lives are “a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” None of us knows how much time we have left. Because of this, passages like Psalm 90:12 encourage us to “number our days” and live wisely. Ecclesiastes talks about times and seasons and embracing the joys God gives. So Scripture does tell us to value the present and not assume we have endless days ahead. In this sense, carpe diem aligns with biblical principles about the fleeting nature of life. We shouldn’t take life for granted or put off joy.
Balance with eternity
However, for the believer, this life is not all there is. The Bible consistently reminds us of the eternal perspective. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 says, “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” Christians are called to live with an eye toward eternity. Our present life, while significant, is temporary and transitional.
As Hebrews 11:13-16 describes believers as “strangers and exiles on the earth” looking forward to “a better country,” we are challenged to not over-invest in the passing pleasures of this world at the expense of the next. We can enjoy God’s blessings now but must hold them loosely and keep them in their proper place – behind Christ. If carpe diem means living only for now, ignoring the eternal, it becomes problematic for followers of Jesus.
Who is in control?
At its core, carpe diem depends on the belief that we can control our futures by seizing opportunities when they arise. But Proverbs 27:1 warns against boasting about tomorrow because we do not know what a day may bring. James 4:13-15 also cautions against arrogantly making plans apart from God’s will.
Ultimately, God is sovereign over our lives and world. Our times are in His hands (Psalm 31:5). Christians acknowledge their limitations and seek God’s will day by day. While diligence and planning are wise, anxiously trying to seize control clashes with living by faith. Carpe diem taken to an extreme can reflect a desire for autonomy rather than humble dependence on God.
More to life than pleasure and prosperity
Carpe diem often focuses on earthly pleasure and success. Make the most of life now, it argues, because you might not have a chance later! So pursue experiences, wealth, and promotion while you can. But Jesus asked in Mark 8:36, “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”
While pleasure is not inherently wrong, and enjoying life is good in its proper place, living solely for worldly enjoyment and prosperity is at odds with Christ’s call to seek first His kingdom (Matthew 6:33). Our purpose extends far beyond this life. Paul wrote in Philippians 3:13-14, “But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Our sights must stay fixed on eternal reward.
Self-centered or others-focused?
Carpe diem is mostly about making yourself happy and pursuing your desires. But the Bible calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Jesus (Mark 8:34). We are called to love God and then to love others selflessly (Matthew 22:37-40). Our lives should be marked by service, generosity, and compassion.
Rather than “seizing” all we can in pursuit of personal pleasure, fulfillment, and success, we are to imitate Christ who came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life for many (Mark 10:45). The mindset of carpe diem runs counter to the humility and self-sacrifice modeled by Jesus.
Stewardship and moderation
A carpe diem philosophy says go for it all now with enthusiasm, while you have the chance! This can easily slide into excess, greed, impulsiveness, and lack of self-control. But Proverbs 25:16 warns that too much honey is nauseating. While enjoying blessings, we are to pursue temperance and steward resources wisely. 1 Corinthians 10:31 instructs: “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Our passion should be moderated by wisdom and bringing glory to Christ.
The book of Ecclesiastes provides a balanced perspective, not condemning pleasure altogether but warning against pursuing it meaninglessly or to excess. Ecclesiastes 3 says there are seasons and times for all legitimate activities under heaven – but our goal should be to fear God rather than simply seizing each day to fulfill selfish desires.
Living all of life Coram Deo
The concept of Coram Deo is helpful here. This Latin phrase meaning “before the face of God” captures how followers of Christ should live every moment of each day – wakefully, humbly, thankfully aware of God’s presence, seeking to honor and glorify Him. This assigns everything its proper weight and place, filtering all through the lens of eternity.
Rather than hastily grabbing at fleeting pleasures, believers bask in the fear of the Lord which is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge (Proverbs 1:7). With an attitude of worship, awe, and gratitude, we prayerfully seize each gift from the Father’s hand without holding it too tightly. Carpe diem misses this sacred grounding and proper perspective.
Biblical balance
In the end, the Bible does encourage us to number our days and live wisely in light of life’s brevity. We don’t have to be somber and morbid! Ecclesiastes 3:12 reminds us that there is “a time to laugh.” Ephesians 5:15-16 exhorts us to “make the best use of the time.” God made us to work, create, and enjoy blessing. The key is balance – embracing life passionately yet loosely, anchored in Christ, worshipping God, and pursuing His kingdom first. In this way, God’s people shine bright lights (Philippians 2:15) that beautifully convey His glory to the world around us.