What practical steps can we take to live as if "the time is near"? Unsealed Urgency of Revelation 22:10 “Then He told me, ‘Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, because the time is near.’” Grasp the Nearness—Mindset Matters • Accept the plain sense of “near”: Christ can return at any moment (Revelation 22:12). • Let this truth shape daily choices—think “soon” rather than “someday.” • Remind yourself each morning: “Today could be the day” (Romans 13:11-12). Practice Daily Repentance • Keep short accounts with God (1 John 1:9). • Ask the Spirit to reveal hidden sins (Psalm 139:23-24). • Act immediately on conviction; delayed obedience dulls urgency (Revelation 22:11). Hold Fast to the Word • Read Scripture expectantly—its prophecies are unfolding (Revelation 22:7). • Memorize key passages on perseverance (James 5:8-9). • Test every opinion against the written Word (Acts 17:11). Cultivate Watchful Prayer • Set specific times for “watch and pray” (Luke 21:36). • Pray for strength to stand firm amid end-time pressures (Mark 13:33). • Keep a journal of answered prayer to reinforce expectancy (1 Peter 4:7). Invest in Eternal Priorities • Re-evaluate calendars and budgets—channel resources toward the kingdom (Matthew 6:19-21). • Serve where fruit lasts beyond this age (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Live simply, freeing time for ministry and relationships (1 Timothy 6:17-19). Share the Gospel Urgently • Keep a short, clear testimony ready (1 Peter 3:15). • Pray daily for opportunities; accept them as divine appointments (Colossians 4:5-6). • Support global outreach—“this gospel of the kingdom will be preached… and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14). Stay Connected to the Church Family • Gather faithfully—encouragement grows as “the Day” draws near (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Use spiritual gifts to strengthen others (1 Corinthians 12:7). • Invite accountability; it guards against drift (Galatians 6:1-2). Grow in Holiness and Purity • Guard eyes, ears, and thoughts—anticipate seeing Him “face to face” (1 John 3:2-3). • Replace compromise with consecration (2 Peter 3:11-12). • Celebrate victories; confess defeats quickly (Romans 6:12-14). Mature in Love and Service • Place others’ needs first (Philippians 2:3-4). • Practice acts of mercy that reflect Christ’s character (John 13:35). • Forgive readily—time is too short to harbor grudges (Ephesians 4:32). Live with Joyful Expectation • Look for “the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). • Sing and speak about His return; it fuels hope (Psalm 96:2-3). • Rejoice amid trials, knowing redemption is close (Romans 8:18-25). The time is near—so every sunrise becomes an opportunity to walk, work, and witness in light of His imminent return. |
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