How does Revelation 22:12 encourage readiness for Christ's return in daily life? The Promise of His Imminent Return “Behold, I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:12). • “Soon” carries the sense of nearness and suddenness (cf. Revelation 3:11). • The Lord’s timetable urges believers to live every moment as though the next could unveil His appearing (Matthew 24:42–44). The Motivation of Certain Reward “My reward is with Me, to repay each one according to what he has done.” • Jesus Himself brings the recompense; it is personal and exact (2 Corinthians 5:10). • Rewards highlight both grace (He enables the work) and responsibility (we choose obedience). • Knowing nothing done for Him is wasted fuels perseverance (1 Corinthians 15:58). Daily Practices That Signal Readiness 1. Expectant watchfulness • Start the day remembering His promise (Psalm 5:3). • End the day with self-examination (Psalm 139:23–24). 2. Active holiness • “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself” (1 John 3:3). • Reject patterns that dull spiritual alertness (Romans 13:11–14). 3. Faithful stewardship • Time—redeem the hours (Ephesians 5:15–16). • Talents—employ gifts in service (1 Peter 4:10–11). • Treasure—lay up riches in heaven (Matthew 6:19–21). 4. Gospel urgency • Love neighbors enough to share Christ (2 Timothy 4:2). • Live so your conduct adorns the message (Philippians 2:15–16). 5. Gracious community life • “Stir one another to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Forgive quickly, knowing the Judge is “standing at the door” (James 5:7–9). Warnings That Sharpen Our Focus • Complacency—thinking “my master is delayed” leads to hypocrisy (Luke 12:45–46). • Worldliness—love of the present age blinds hearts to eternity (1 John 2:15–17). • Weariness—losing heart robs reward (Galatians 6:9). Assurance for the Faithful • The same verse that warns also comforts: Christ’s reward is “with Me.” • He remembers even “a cup of cold water” given in His name (Matthew 10:42). • Our readiness rests on His finished work that enables fruitful obedience (John 15:5). Summary Steps to Live Expectantly • Fix your hope daily on His imminent arrival. • Cultivate holiness and service empowered by His Spirit. • Invest every resource—time, talent, treasure—in kingdom priorities. • Encourage fellow believers and advance the gospel with urgency. • Trust that the righteous Judge will honor every act of faith when He appears. |
    |