Stand Firm

Thursday, October 12

Matthew 24:13-14 (NKJV)
But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.
Devotion
The Bible tells us that the world is going to end. We don't know when it will happen, but we are certain it will. In the book of Matthew, Jesus tells his disciples about the signs of the end times. He mentions wars, famines, earthquakes, false prophets, and many falling away from the faith. Jesus compares the end times to the birth pains of a woman; the contractions start mildly and spread far apart, but they become more intense and frequent as the woman gets closer to giving birth. In the same way, the signs of the end times will become more intense and frequent as we get closer to the return of Jesus.

So, what should we do? How do we prepare for the end times? First, we need to make sure that our faith is in Jesus Christ. He is the only one who can save us from our sins and give us eternal life. Second, we must lead holy lives, turning away from sin and following Jesus' teachings by ensuring that we are like the five wise virgins who had oil in their lamps, symbolizing the infilling of the Holy Spirit.

The crossing of the Red Sea in the book of Exodus teaches us that we need to trust in God, even when things look difficult or impossible. We don't need to be afraid of the end times, because God is with us. He will fight for us and He will bring us to safety.

Today’s Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
I ask Your forgiveness, for the areas in which I lack faith in my walk with You. I seek Your guidance to help me align my life, that I may be ready for the return of Your Son. I desire not only to be ready myself, but also to lead others to You through my lifestyle and my words. I thank You for Your wisdom as I start this journey. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Apply It Today
Are you ready for the end times? Do you have oil in your lamp? Are you living a holy life? Are you following Jesus' teachings? Are you sharing the gospel with others? Are you trusting in God? If you can answer yes to all of these questions, then you are ready for the end times. If not, then be encouraged to start preparing today.

Resources:
  • Watch the message, “Keys to Living the Right Life” and be encouraged to keep the faith as you wait for the return of Jesus Christ.
  • Are you looking for a community of believers who eagerly await the return of the Lord? Join a Small Group today and look no further.