In what ways can we prepare for God's judgment in our own lives? Jeremiah’s Sobering Picture “Ask now, and see: Can a man bear children? Then why do I see every man with his hands on his stomach like a woman in labor, every face turned deathly pale?” (Jeremiah 30:6) What the Labor Pains Reveal - God’s judgment is unavoidable and deeply distressing; no one can ignore it. - The image strips away masculine pride, showing that every heart will tremble. - If even the strongest collapse, preparation must begin now, not later. Personal Heart Preparation - Repent quickly and continually • “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” (Matthew 3:2) • Confess known sin: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just…” (1 John 1:9) - Self-examination • “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.” (2 Corinthians 13:5) • Invite God’s searchlight: “Search me, O God… and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24) - Cultivate holy fear • “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” (Hebrews 10:31) • Reverent awe guards against complacency and motivates obedience. Lifestyle Preparation - Pursue practical 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 3:11-12) • Align habits, entertainment, finances, and speech with Scripture’s standards. - Armor up daily • “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:11) • Prayerful devotion and Scripture intake strengthen resistance to sin. - Serve and reconcile • Forgive quickly (Ephesians 4:32) and make wrongs right—judgment exposes unresolved conflicts. Relational & Community Preparation - Warn and encourage others • “Prepare to meet your God.” (Amos 4:12) • Share the gospel, disciple the willing, and restore the wandering (James 5:19-20). - Gather faithfully • Spur one another on toward love and good deeds, “all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25) • Corporate worship keeps a judgment-ready perspective. Daily Habits of Readiness - Morning surrender: commit thoughts, decisions, and plans to Christ. - Evening review: confess, give thanks, and remember eternity. - Scripture memory: store promises and warnings that shape choices. - Acts of mercy: generosity and justice demonstrate living faith (Micah 6:8). Living in Certain Hope - Judgment for believers is not condemnation but reward and refinement (1 Corinthians 3:12-15). - “Each of us will give an account of himself to God.” (Romans 14:12) - Confidence rests in Christ’s finished work; readiness flows from loving Him with all heart, soul, mind, and strength. |
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