The concept of living expectantly is deeply rooted in the Christian faith, emphasizing a life of anticipation and readiness for the fulfillment of God's promises. This expectation is not passive but active, influencing the believer's daily conduct, priorities, and spiritual outlook.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible encourages believers to live with a sense of expectancy, particularly concerning the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of God's kingdom. In the New Testament, this theme is prevalent, urging Christians to remain vigilant and prepared. Jesus Himself taught about the importance of readiness in parables such as the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) and the Faithful Servant (Luke 12:35-40).

In the Berean Standard Bible, 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8 states, "So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober. For those who sleep, sleep at night; and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of our hope of salvation." This passage underscores the call to spiritual alertness and moral integrity as believers await Christ's return.

Hope and Assurance

Living expectantly is closely tied to the Christian hope and assurance of salvation. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often speaks of the hope that believers have in Christ. Romans 8:24-25 says, "For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he can already see? But if we hope for what we do not yet see, we wait for it patiently." This hope is not wishful thinking but a confident expectation based on the promises of God.

Practical Implications

Living expectantly affects how Christians engage with the world and their personal lives. It calls for a life of holiness, as seen in 2 Peter 3:11-12 : "Since everything will be dissolved 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." This anticipation motivates believers to pursue righteousness and align their lives with God's will.

Moreover, living expectantly involves active participation in the mission of the Church. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) is a call to spread the Gospel, driven by the expectation of Christ's return and the desire to see others come to faith.

Encouragement and Perseverance

The expectancy of Christ's return also serves as a source of encouragement and perseverance in the face of trials. James 5:7-8 exhorts believers, "Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the soil—how patient he is for the fall and spring rains. You too, be patient and strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near." This patience is not passive but involves strengthening one's heart and remaining steadfast in faith.

Community and Fellowship

Living expectantly is not an individual endeavor but is meant to be experienced within the community of believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages Christians to "spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." The anticipation of Christ's return fosters a sense of urgency in building up the body of Christ through fellowship and mutual encouragement.

In summary, living expectantly is a dynamic and transformative aspect of the Christian life, rooted in the hope of Christ's return and the fulfillment of God's promises. It calls believers to a life of holiness, active mission, perseverance, and community, as they await the glorious future that God has prepared.