The Time Is Near

"Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you." Revelation 3:3 (NKJV)

We are told in the Book of Revelation, "Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near” (Rev. 1:3).

This prophecy was referring to the entire book of Revelation, an unveiling of events in the last days. The author was the Apostle John, and the words he wrote were given to him by Jesus.

The book opens with a straightforward message to the reader to, “Keep those things which are written,” which means to “guard” them, or to “keep an eye on them.” In other words the reader of Revelation is to continually have what is written within it upon his or her mind. Unfortunately, I find many people to be intimidated by this book because of its many uses of imagery, and because of its message of wrath.

But the way I see it, there is critically important information contained within this book for us to utilize when trying to help others to understand the urgency of being prepared, and to educate them in what will transpire. It has also been my experience to note the ones who are usually frightened by Revelation are the ones who usually are not abiding in God’s will for their life. Those who have an abiding relationship, and who trust God, are the ones who look forward to Jesus’ return.

“Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.” Revelation 16:15 (NKJV)

Q: So how should our knowing about Christ’s imminent return affect the way we live?

While it is impossible for the day of the Lord to catch Christians unprepared, it is possible for us to adopt the same lifestyle as those who will be caught unaware. Paul urges his readers not to let this happen.

Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:6 (NKJV)

I want to encourage you to meditate upon these things today. Let’s choose to read the whole counsel of God’s Word so we may be prepared to help others understand.

STUDY QUESTION: According to the Scriptures from Revelation contained within this devotional, what can we learn about Jesus’ return?

PERSONAL INVENTORY: Are you prepared for Jesus' to return today?

APPLICATION: Let’s choose to walk in obedience to what we know to be right as outlined in God’s Word. Let’s continue to look forward to Jesus returning at any moment.