Memorise: But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief.I Thessalonians 5:4
Read: 2 Peter 3:10-14
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 16-17, Ephesians 3
AS REVEALED BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE IN TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL
Although the events that will herald the second coming of Christ are disturbing and could even be frightening, our Lord did not forewarn of these events in order to frighten or terrify us. His purpose was to prepare and empower us with the right attitude and mindset.
2.Based on yesterday’s study, since it is obvious that we are now in the end times, we will be considering the instructions that the Lord gave to us on how we ought to live in these last days. The Lord instructed us to watch out so that we are not deceived by anyone (Matthew 24:4).
3.This warning should be taken seriously as it is increasingly becoming difficult to focus on the message of the gospel. Some false prophets, hiding under the cloak of possessing special revelations, are peddling new doctrines that have no foundation in the Bible. Many issues that are clearly stated in the Bible, such as those relating to salvation, sexual orientation, abortion, divorce and remarriage, termination of life on request, tithing and the giving of first fruits are now being presented in ways that are contrary to the word of God. Do not be deceived, but rather hold on to the true word of God in all situations.
4.As we read about the signs and observe their fulfillment, we should not be alarmed, because they must happen. Having foreknowledge of their occurrence should remove the element of surprise that may affect those who are uninformed. We are to use our knowledge to our advantage by standing firm to the very end. Our knowledge should also motivate us to continue preaching the gospel throughout the world, warning all men about the reality of the second coming of the Lord and the impending danger of ignoring this warning. We must be well prepared for the persecution that may come in the form of government laws and regulations, or as conditions to be met in order to have access to certain benefits. Our duty is to watch continually for our Lord’s second coming.
5.He repeatedly stressed that His coming, though certain, would happen when people least expect it to. As His bride, we are to continually sitr ourselves up to be ready for His coming at any time. Frequent reflections on Christ’s beauty, love, mercy, glory and honour, in addition to a lifestyle of praise and worship will help to cultivate a readiness to meet Jesus in the air.
6.Aggressive evangelism in our families and communities will also help to increase our readiness for Christ’s coming. We must actively strive against worldliness because a worldly mindset is contrary to a watchful spirit. Finally, we must pray for the coming of the Lrod according to Revelation 22:17:
“And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”
SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS
There are two key words every believer should regard with all seriousness. “Watch and Pray” these two words simply explain what we should do to ensure us not to be catch unaware when Christ comes. To be watchful is to alert and be ready for an expectation. Are you expectant of His second coming? Watch and Pray so as not to be catch unaware. May we all continue to be alert and prayerful until His coming. May God continue to increase Pastor E.A ADEBOYE.
Action Point:
Assess your readiness for the coming persecution of believers, and for the return of the Lord.
HYMN
THE OLD RUGGED CROSS
1. On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suffering and shame;
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.
Chorus:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it someday for a crown.
2. O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left his glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary.
3. In that old rugged cross, I stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ‘twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.
4. To that old rugged cross I will ever be true
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then he’ll call me some day to my home far away,
Where his glory forever I’ll share.
RECENT COMMENTS
Joesphine Ehigie
TJ