How should belief in Jesus' return influence our daily actions and decisions? The Scene of His Return “When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne.” – Matthew 25:31 Living with Eternal Perspective • Every choice is made with the throne in view. • 2 Corinthians 5:10 reminds us that “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ,” urging careful, prayerful decisions. • Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above,” lifting daily plans out of mere routine. Active Compassion and Justice • Matthew 25:32-40 shows the King separating sheep from goats according to how they treated “the least of these.” • We feed, clothe, visit, and welcome because Christ may be served through every hurting person. • James 1:27: true religion “to visit orphans and widows.” • Each act of mercy echoes forward to the day He sits on His throne. Faithful Stewardship • Knowing inspection is coming (Matthew 25:14-30), talents, time, and treasures are invested, not hoarded. • 1 Peter 4:10: “Use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” • Budget, calendar, and career choices are measured by kingdom return, not short-term gain. Pursuing Holiness • 1 John 3:2-3: “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” • Entertainment, speech, relationships, and private thoughts are filtered through “Would this please the soon-returning King?” • Titus 2:11-14 ties grace, godly living, and the “blessed hope” together. Unashamed Witness • Mark 13:10: “The gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations.” • Conversations, social media posts, and hospitality become avenues to invite others before the throne while there is still time. • Jude 23: reach out, “snatching them from the fire.” Hope-Fueled Perseverance • Trials shrink when set against “the glory that will be revealed” (Romans 8:18). • Hebrews 10:35-37: “He who is coming will come and will not delay,” so we “do not throw away [our] confidence.” • Steadfastness in suffering is worship that anticipates crowning day. Daily Checklist for a Heart Ready for His Appearing – Start with worship: acknowledge the coming King. – Examine motives: would this hold up at His throne? – Schedule compassion: plan one tangible act of mercy. – Steward wisely: budget and time block for kingdom goals. – Pursue purity: eliminate one compromise today. – Share hope: speak the gospel to at least one person. – End day with gratitude: thank Him that His return is nearer than when we first believed (Romans 13:11). Even mundane moments become sacred when each sunrise whispers, “The King may come today.” |
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