Devo 33:10: Are You Ready For Jesus Return? I Thess 5:1-11

Devo 33:10: Are You Ready For Jesus Return? I Thess 5:1-9 NLT
There is much speculation today about the return of Jesus and the end of the world as we know it. The Movie 2012 predicts that the world will come to an end on December 21, 2012. The fact is that nobody knows the exact time when the Lord will return. The bible tells us clearly that Jesus will return. Note Paul’s words to the Thessalonians in verses 1-3:
Now concerning how and when all this will happen, dear brothers and sisters, we don’t really need to write you. For you know quite well that the day of the Lord’s return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. When people are saying, “Everything is peaceful and secure,” then disaster will fall on them as suddenly as a pregnant woman’s labor pains begin. And there will be no escape.

Paul gives the Thessalonian believers some guidance on how to think and live in light of the expected return of Christ in verses 4-7:
4 But you aren’t in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won’t be surprised when the day of the Lord comes like a thief. 5 For you are all children of the light and of the day; we don’t belong to darkness and night. 6 So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded. 7 Night is the time when people sleep and drinkers get drunk. 8 But let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation.

Paul says that we are not to be caught off guard like the children on darkness (the nonbelievers). As children of the light, we will live lives so that we will be ready when he comes. Instead of getting high on substances or being intoxicated by the world, we will remain sober. We will keep our minds clear and focused, protected by the armour of faith , love, and salvation. Faith keeps us focused on Christ and the Gospel. Love keeps us in right relationship with God and with people. Our salvation keeps us focused on who we are and whose we are: Sons of God! Children of the Most High God who eagerly await His return!

Finally, Paul encourages the believers not to fear. They will not come under God’s wrath like sinners but will live with Jesus forever: Note verses 9-11:
9 For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. 10Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. 11 So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.
Closing Prayer: Lord, as I eagerly await your return, help me to live a clearheaded life, protected by the armour of Faith, Love and Salvation. Help me to share the hope of Salvation with my friends so that they too will eagerly await your return rather than living in denial or fear! In Jesus Name! Amen!