What practical steps can we take to prepare for our redemption's nearness? Our Focus Verse: Luke 21:28 “But when these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Keeping a Watchful Heart - Lift up your head—live in hopeful expectation, not dread (Philippians 4:4-5; 1 Thessalonians 5:6). - Guard against spiritual drowsiness (Luke 21:34-36). • Audit entertainment, habits, and relationships that dull alertness. • Trade noise for Scripture-soaked silence. - Act as though Christ could return before sunset (Matthew 24:46). Walking in Holiness - Hope fuels purity (1 John 3:2-3; 2 Peter 3:11-12). • Confess sin quickly; restore broken relationships (Romans 13:11-14). • Practice visible obedience—honesty, integrity, sexual purity. • Cultivate the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-25). Staying Rooted in Scripture - The Word lights the path (Psalm 119:105). • Establish a daily reading rhythm. • Memorize hope-anchoring verses (John 14:3; Revelation 22:20). • Evaluate culture through the lens of truth (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Persevering in Prayer - Watchfulness and prayer go together (Luke 21:36). • Schedule regular intercession. • Pray “Maranatha—Come, Lord!” while seeking strength to endure. • Record answered prayers to bolster faith. Strengthening Fellowship - Meet and encourage “all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Commit to consistent, in-person worship. • Share testimonies, sing hope-filled songs. • Draw isolated believers into community. Engaging in Witness - A soon-coming Redeemer wants a full house (Acts 1:8; 2 Corinthians 5:20). • Keep your personal gospel story ready. • Pray for specific unbelievers and pursue conversations. • Support global missions with prayer and resources. Ordering Priorities for Eternity - Invest where moth and rust can’t touch (Matthew 6:19-21). • Budget time and money around kingdom aims. • Practice generosity that signals trust in heavenly reward (1 Timothy 6:17-19). • Weigh life plans—career, retirement, relocation—by their impact for Christ. Banishing Fear with Hope - “Do not let your hearts be troubled” (John 14:1). • Preach sovereignty to your soul; God’s timeline is fixed. • Replace anxiety with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6-7). • Remember redemption means complete salvation, body and creation included (Romans 8:23). Living Ready—Every Day Matters - Diligence, not date-setting, marks readiness. - Head up, knees bowed, hands busy—the servant Christ will find faithful (Titus 2:11-13). |
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