How can we prepare for God's judgment as described in Psalm 98:9? Setting the Scene: Psalm 98:9 “He will judge the world with righteousness and the peoples with equity.” (Psalm 98:9) God’s judgment is certain, righteous, and fair. Preparing well is both a privilege and an urgent responsibility. Why God’s Judgment Matters • Judgment is universal—“it is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). • Judgment is personal—“each of us will give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12). • Judgment is Christ-centered—“the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son” (John 5:22). Embrace the Judge—Trust in Christ • Repent and believe the gospel (Mark 1:15). • Rest in His finished work: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). • Confess Him openly: “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9). Live Out What You Believe • Pursue obedience: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • Display the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, and the rest (Galatians 5:22-23). • Practice justice and mercy: “He has shown you, O man, what is good… to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). Grow in Righteousness through the Word 1. Read daily—Psalm 1:2 calls us to delight in His law “day and night.” 2. Memorize and meditate—Psalm 119:11: “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” 3. Obey promptly—James 1:22: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” Cultivate an Eternal Mindset • Hold possessions loosely (Matthew 6:19-21). • Redeem the time, “for the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16). • Long for His appearing (2 Timothy 4:8). Stay Watchful in Worship • Gather faithfully—Hebrews 10:25 urges “not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together.” • Sing the victory—Psalm 98 itself invites joyful praise because the Judge is also the Savior. • Celebrate Communion, proclaiming His death “until He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). Encourage One Another • Spur believers toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24). • Restore gently when anyone is caught in sin (Galatians 6:1). • Comfort with the hope of resurrection (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). By trusting Christ, obeying His Word, focusing on eternity, worshiping faithfully, and encouraging others, we stand ready for the righteous and equitable judgment Psalm 98:9 promises. |
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