How can we live faithfully while anticipating Christ's imminent return? Living in the Light of Hebrews 10:37 “For, ‘In just a little while, He who is coming will come and will not delay.’” (Hebrews 10:37) A Certain Promise: He Is Coming Soon • The Lord’s return is not a vague hope but a sure appointment secured by His own word (Matthew 24:44; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). • God speaks truthfully and without error; His timetable may seem slow to us, yet He “will not delay” in the sense that He arrives precisely on schedule (2 Peter 3:9). • Because Scripture is fully reliable, we anchor our plans, priorities, and expectations in this promise. Watchful Hearts, Active Hands • Jesus urges, “Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning” (Luke 12:35-37). • Watchfulness is not passive sky-gazing; it is alert obedience that: – Keeps conscience clear through quick repentance (1 John 1:9). – Seeks daily opportunities to serve (Galatians 6:9-10). – Treats every conversation as potentially eternal (Colossians 4:5-6). Cultivating Holiness in the Waiting • “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as Christ is pure” (1 John 3:2-3). • Practical steps: – Renounce “ungodliness and worldly passions” while choosing “sensible, upright, and godly lives” (Titus 2:11-13). – Feed on Scripture; its truth renews the mind and guards against deception (Psalm 119:11). – Live transparently—invite accountability that helps keep your walk blameless (Proverbs 27:17). Stirring One Another to Perseverance • “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds… all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Community habits that strengthen perseverance: – Regular corporate worship and Bible study. – Sharing testimonies of God’s faithfulness; reminders of answered prayer fuel endurance. – Tangible support for believers under trial (James 1:27). Guarding Against Drift • “Strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near” (James 5:8). • Common dangers while waiting: – Spiritual lethargy—cured by intentional disciplines: worship, meditation, fasting. – Worldly distraction—countered by fixing eyes on heavenly citizenship (Philippians 3:20-21). – Cynicism—silenced by remembering past deliverances and rehearsing His promises (Lamentations 3:21-23). Everyday Practices That Keep Us Ready • Begin the day with expectancy: thank Jesus aloud that He could return before nightfall. • Frame decisions through an eternal lens: careers, finances, relationships chosen for Kingdom impact (Matthew 6:33). • Give generously; treasure invested in heaven cannot be lost (Luke 12:33-34). • Share the gospel; Christ delays to extend mercy, “not wanting anyone to perish” (2 Peter 3:9). • Go to bed reconciled—no grudges, no unresolved sin—so you can greet Him unashamed (Ephesians 4:26-27). Salvation is nearer now than when we first believed (Romans 13:11-12). By taking God’s Word at face value, we live awake, clean, and busy at the work He assigns—ready for that glorious moment when “He who is coming will come and will not delay.” |
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