May 27th

Living for the Day

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

We talk a lot about the external signs of Jesus' impending return-the rising tension in Israel, the chaos growing in nations like Iran and China, and the incredible signs we see in the Earth-but what's even more important are the internal signs that Jesus is coming soon.

Here in our verses today we find an incredible list to help us understand what these powerful internal signs should be.

Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. You know what? I think most of us get discouraged if we prayed about something for ten minutes and it hasn't happened. We're like, What's wrong? What's going on? I've been praying for this for ten minutes.

Here's something for you: We know Franklin Graham as an incredible man of God who brings the gospel to the nations, but for years he was a stinking rebel. And it was only in the kindness of people who prayed for years without ceasing and in their kindness that he was brought to repentance to become the man he is today.

I remember hearing another story about a particular region in Russia that prayed that Billy Graham would come and preach there. And they prayed for 18 years that he would come before it happened.

Some of you have been praying for your kids. Keep praying. It doesn't matter how long you've already been praying; keep praying. Pray without ceasing.

Look what comes next: In everything give thanks. Now please note. It doesn't say for everything. It says in everything. I don't think the Bible is unreasonable, okay? I don't think we're thankful for deaths in our families or for terrible sicknesses, but even in those things, during those times, in everything give thanks, because God will see you through.

Living out this list means that our lives become a sign of Jesus' coming return, testifying to them that our time is short and we all need to be right with Him. More than that, for ourselves, living out this list means being ready for Jesus' return.

Are you ready?

Prayer Lord Jesus,

Thank You for the reminder that You are coming soon! Help me to live out this list so that I will always be ready for Your return!

Amen