" Be Watching ! "

 

2nd.Peter 3:12-14  "Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the Day of GOD, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat ? Nevertheless we, according to HIS promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of HIM in peace, without spot, and blameless."

     The future destruction of this Earth and everything in it not only should motivate us to live godly holy lives, but it also should impel us to watch continually for the any-moment return of JESUS CHRIST. In today's text, Peter tells us that we are to eagerly anticipate the reality of a new Heaven and a new Earth "wherein dwelleth righteousness" (v.13). Of course, prior to the destruction of this sin-cursed Earth and the creation of a new, righteous Earth, CHRIST must return to catch away HIS saints. The blessed reality of the rapture is the next big event to occur on GOD's prophetic timetable. Anticipating CHRIST's return not only will cause us to look forward to a new Heaven and new Earth but also will serve as a purifying factor in our lives right now. We should diligently seek to be "without spot" at CHRIST's appearing (v.14). Blamelessness comes through abiding in CHRIST and living a holy, righteous lifestyle.

     As believers who know that GOD will one day destroy this Earth and its contents with fire, we should eagerly await and anticipate the coming of JESUS CHRIST for HIS saints. We can rejoice in the fact that we will not endure the judgment that GOD has reserved for the world and the lusts therein. We know we will be spared this coming Day because GOD has promised it (v.13). Yet our future salvation should not cause us to be lethargic now. If we anticipate CHRIST's return and live each moment as though it could be our last, we will naturally desire to do that which will enable us to be "blameless" at HIS appearing (v.14 cf. 1st.John 2:28 pictured above). Does JESUS CHRIST's imminent return motivate you to "live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world" (Titus 2:11-14 pictured below) ? MDC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

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