What actions can we take to prepare for God's promised future judgment? Reflect on the Flood’s Warning “Through these waters the world of that time perished in the flood” (2 Peter 3:6). • God’s past judgment is historical and literal; His future judgment is just as certain (2 Peter 3:7). • Like Noah’s generation, today’s world is “storing up fire” for the day of reckoning—so ignoring the warning is not an option. Respond with Genuine Repentance • “The Lord … is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). • Turn from sin promptly (Acts 17:30). • Confess and forsake hidden practices (Proverbs 28:13). • Welcome the Spirit’s conviction rather than resisting it (John 16:8). Cultivate Daily Holiness “Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives” (2 Peter 3:11). Practical steps: • Discipline habits—prayer, Scripture intake, fellowship (Acts 2:42). • Guard thought life (Philippians 4:8). • Practice obedience in small, unnoticed duties (Luke 16:10). • Keep short accounts—quick to forgive and to seek forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32). Stay Watchful and Sober “Therefore let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6). • Evaluate influences—media, friendships, ambitions (Ephesians 5:15-16). • Set regular “heart checks” to ask, Am I longing for His appearing? (2 Timothy 4:8). • Fast occasionally to sharpen spiritual alertness (Matthew 6:17-18). Invest in Eternal Priorities • Store treasures in heaven through generosity (Matthew 6:19-21). • Use gifts to build up the body of Christ (1 Peter 4:10-11). • Remember stewardship: every resource—time, money, skills—will be audited by the King (Romans 14:10-12). Proclaim the Way of Escape “By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family” (Hebrews 11:7). • Boldly share the gospel, offering the true Ark—Christ Himself (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). • Live so that your words and lifestyle agree; credibility amplifies testimony (Philippians 2:15-16). • Pray for and pursue the lost, trusting the Spirit to convict and draw (John 6:44). Anchor Your Hope in His Promise “In keeping with His promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13). • Fix eyes on the coming glory to endure present trials (Romans 8:18). • Encourage one another with the certainty of Christ’s return (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Rest in grace while striving for faithfulness (2 Peter 3:14-15). |
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