In what ways can we prepare for God's promised future shaking? Setting the Scene “For thus says the LORD of Hosts: ‘Once more, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land.’” (Haggai 2:6) Why God Shakes - To expose what is temporary and reveal what is eternal (Hebrews 12:26-27). - To purify His people, separating precious faith from worthless dross (Malachi 3:2-3). - To usher in the fullness of His Kingdom, “the kingdom that cannot be shaken” (Hebrews 12:28). Preparing Our Hearts - Cultivate reverent awe. “Let us offer to God acceptable worship with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire’” (Hebrews 12:28-29). - Pursue holiness. “Make every effort to be found at peace, spotless and blameless in His sight” (2 Peter 3:14). - Keep a tender conscience. Daily confession keeps the heart soft and ready (1 John 1:9). Anchoring Our Faith - Stand on the Word. “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8). - Hold the testimony of Jesus. He is “the Desire of All Nations” promised in Haggai 2:7, the unshakable cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20). - Remember fulfilled prophecies to strengthen confidence about those yet to come (Joshua 23:14). Re-ordering Our Priorities - Invest in eternal treasure. “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:20-21). - Travel light. “We fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen” (2 Corinthians 4:18). - Seek the Kingdom first; everything else finds its proper place (Matthew 6:33). Strengthening Community - Meet faithfully. “And let us consider how to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together” (Hebrews 10:24-25). - Serve sacrificially. Shaking often creates needs; readiness includes a willingness to give time, resources, and encouragement (Acts 4:34-35). - Speak life. “Encourage one another daily… so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness” (Hebrews 3:13). Living with Hopeful Expectancy - Look forward eagerly to “new heavens and a new earth where righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13). - Rest in God’s sovereignty; nothing can thwart His plans (Isaiah 46:9-10). - Rejoice that the final shaking culminates in an unbreakable kingdom and unending fellowship with Christ (Revelation 21:3-4). A Snapshot Checklist for Readiness • Heart cleansed and humble • Mind anchored in Scripture • Hands busy with Kingdom work • Eyes fixed on eternal realities • Lips overflowing with encouragement • Feet quick to gather with God’s people “Therefore, beloved, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard… But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:17-18). |
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