Be Ready For His Return
We live in unprecedented times.
As each year passes, Jesus’ return draws closer. And His return has never been felt so close.
We are undergoing a global pandemic. There are worldwide protests and riots. Trade wars are looming. The global economy will be greatly affected. Tensions between countries are escalating. Locusts are destroying crops. Hurricanes and earthquakes are expected.
Jesus commands us to be ready for His return.
How can we be ready?
- Stay awake.
So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober. (1Thess 5:6)
When you sleep, you do not know what is happening. Stay alert by studying the Bible, praying, keeping informed of the global news.
- Watch out for false teachers.
Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first. (2Thess 2:3)
False teachers will make all sorts of claims. Know what the Bible says.
- Live as if He will return today.
Behold, I am coming like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake, keeping his garments on, that he may not go about naked and be seen exposed! (Rev 16:5)
Be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. (Matt 24:44)
Look forward to Jesus’ return. Every morning, tell yourself, “Jesus might return today.”
- Watch your conduct.
Training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. (Tit 2:12-13)
Watch our steps. We want to be found faithful and wise when He returns.
- Encourage one another.
Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore encourage one another with these words. (1Thess 4:17-18)
Offer hope to others. Tell them they can hope in Jesus. Tell them about heaven and eternal life.
6. Be occupied with the Lord’s work.
And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come. (Luke 19:13)
Use our time, talents, energy, resources effectively for the Lord.
(MT)