How can we live daily with the hope of Jesus' promised return? The Promise That Anchors Our Hope “ ‘And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am.’ ” (John 14:3) • Jesus speaks personally: “I will come back.” No metaphor, no vague spiritual concept—an actual future return. • His purpose: “so that you also may be where I am.” Our hope is relational, not merely geographical; we long for Him, not just heaven. Why Jesus’ Return Shapes Our Daily Lives • Confidence in His character—He keeps every promise (Numbers 23:19). • Comfort in trials—“encourage one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). • Motivation for holy living—“everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself” (1 John 3:2-3). • Zeal for witness—His patience means salvation for others (2 Peter 3:9). Practices That Keep the Hope Vibrant 1. Daily Scripture intake – Read passages on His return: Matthew 24, 1 Corinthians 15, Revelation 19-22. – “Blessed is the one who reads…” (Revelation 1:3). 2. Persistent prayer – Pray “Your kingdom come” (Matthew 6:10). – Stay alert and pray for strength (Luke 21:36). 3. Intentional holiness – Reject patterns that dim our expectancy (Romans 13:11-14). – Remember we are “citizens of heaven” (Philippians 3:20-21). 4. Gospel engagement – Share Christ; every conversation could introduce someone to the coming King (Matthew 24:14). 5. Fellowship that stirs hope – “encouraging one another…all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Guarding Against Distractions and Doubts • Expect scoffers—2 Peter 3:3-4 predicts them; their presence proves Scripture true. • Resist worldly allure—“the world and its desires pass away” (1 John 2:15-17). • Fix eyes on the unseen—“eternal glory far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Encouraging One Another While We Wait • Speak hope—quote promises in conversation (Titus 2:11-13). • Share testimonies of God’s present faithfulness; they preview His future faithfulness. • Serve practically—doing good until He comes (Galatians 5:13). A Daily Declaration of Expectation Today I watch, work, and worship, confident that the One who promised, “I will come back,” could arrive at any moment. His return is certain; my hope is secure; my life today will show it. |
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