READING: Ezekiel 20:33-22:31, James 4-5
The return of the Lord is ever upon us. He is without a doubt coming again. Today could, in fact, be the day of His second coming.
Yet, we are to be patient as we wait for that day.
The early church was to be patient yet trusting as well, particularly in a time of persecution. They were to submit to God, resist the devil, and stand firm, knowing that God would keep His Word about His return. Their expectation of the coming of Christ was to keep them focused on Him, regardless of what opposition they faced. Temptations and trials would come, but the believers could remain faithful by recognizing Christ’s return as imminent. They could stay committed even when others (like the rich) were treating them unjustly if they understood they would need to endure for only a little while. In His time, God would bring justice.
All of us can press on faithfully today if we understand that Christ could come back this day. So, let’s serve Him obediently today—ever patient for His return yet always keeping our eyes toward the skies.
PRAYER: “Grant me grace to live in light of Your possible coming today.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: If you knew for certain Jesus was coming back today, what would you change? Take steps in that direction today.
TOMORROW’S READING: Ezekiel 23-25, 1 Peter 1