How can we be vigilant like the homeowner in Luke 12:39? The Illustration Jesus Gave “ But understand this: If the homeowner had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into.” – Luke 12:39 Jesus pictures a responsible homeowner—alert, prepared, unwilling to surrender what is his. That alertness is exactly what believers need as we await Christ’s return and guard our lives from spiritual intrusion. Why Vigilance Matters • Matthew 24:42 – “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come.” • 1 Peter 5:8 – “Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:6 – “So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober.” The unknown timing of Christ’s coming and the reality of a prowling enemy make spiritual drowsiness dangerous. Practical Ways to Keep Watch Guard the Door of Your Heart • Proverbs 4:23 – “Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.” • Decide in advance what enters through eyes, ears, and thoughts; refuse anything that dulls love for Christ. • Regularly examine motives and attitudes in light of Scripture. Embrace Daily Spiritual Disciplines • Psalm 119:11 – “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing.” • Read, meditate, and memorize Scripture; pray throughout the day; fast when distractions gain power. Consistent habits keep spiritual senses sharp. Lean on Fellowship and Accountability • Hebrews 10:24-25 – “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds… encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” • Meet regularly with believers who challenge, correct, and strengthen you. • Invite someone you trust to ask candid questions about your walk. Live as Though Today Is the Day • 2 Peter 3:11-12 – “Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to conduct yourselves in holiness and godliness as you anticipate and hasten the coming of the day of God.” • Make choices—time, money, relationships—through the lens of Christ’s imminent return. • Keep “temporary” and “eternal” clearly sorted in your priorities. Armor Up Against the Enemy • James 4:7 – “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” • Ephesians 6:10-11 – “Be strong in the Lord… Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes.” • Daily put on truth, righteousness, readiness, faith, salvation, and the Word (Ephesians 6:13-17). • Stay filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:16). Serve Faithfully Until He Comes • Luke 12:42-44 – “Blessed is that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.” • Use gifts and opportunities now; stewardship keeps the heart engaged and ready. • Look for small acts of obedience—every task done for Christ is watchfulness in action. Take Heart—The Vigilant Are Blessed • Revelation 16:15 – “Look, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who remains awake and clothed, so that he will not go naked and let his shame be exposed.” • 2 Timothy 4:8 – A crown of righteousness awaits “all who crave His appearing.” Stay awake, keep the lights on, and guard the house. The Master is worth every moment of watchful anticipation. |
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