Eyes Lifted Up: Learning to Trust Heaven When Earth Fails

In a world filled with disappointments, betrayals, and unfulfilled promises, one truth stands firm: our ultimate help comes from Heaven, not man. When systems collapse and relationships shatter, God remains our unchanging source of strength. This post explores how to develop a heart that looks to Heaven when everything else falls apart.

Why Trusting in Man Will Always Fall Short

Many of us have found ourselves relying on people, institutions, or governments, only to be left empty and wounded. The Bible warns us about placing our trust in human strength:

"Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD." – Jeremiah 17:5

This isn't just about trusting others—it includes trusting ourselves over God. When our plans seem better than His, we begin to walk by sight, not faith. Yet the deeper truth is that God allows human disappointment to redirect our gaze upward.

Looking Up When the Ground Is Shaking

Life has a way of shaking our foundations. Financial failure, betrayal by loved ones, or even church hurt can destabilize us. But each of these moments is an invitation to look to Heaven.

"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth." – Psalm 121:1–2

The psalmist didn’t say, "I’ll look to kings, priests, or nations." He looked to the Creator of all things. In times of loss, confusion, or failure, our soul must be trained to lift its eyes above the chaos.

Lessons from Biblical Heroes Who Looked to Heaven

1. King Jehoshaphat – “Our Eyes Are Upon Thee”

Surrounded by armies too great to fight, Jehoshaphat did what every believer should do in the face of overwhelming odds:

"For we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee." – 2 Chronicles 20:12

God responded to this gaze of faith by fighting the battle on their behalf. The armies destroyed themselves without Israel raising a sword!

2. Stephen – A Martyr’s Vision of Heaven

Even while being stoned, Stephen lifted his eyes. His body was dying, but his spirit was alive in heavenly vision:

"But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God." – Acts 7:55

When the world fails you—when even death threatens—you can look up and see glory. This is the confidence of the righteous.

Modern Challenges That Demand Heavenly Focus

• Church Hurt: When pastors or fellow believers fail you, remember they are not God. Let your faith rest in Christ alone.
• Broken Marriages: When your spouse stops loving or understanding you, Heaven still sees and hears.
• Financial Collapse: Earth’s economy is unstable, but God never files for bankruptcy.
• National Crisis: Whether it’s injustice, war, or moral decay, our hope is not in rulers but in the King of Kings.

Jesus: The Ultimate Focus of Our Eyes

Scripture gives us one clear command in times of both peace and pain:

"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith..." – Hebrews 12:2

He is the start and the finish. Eyes fixed on Christ won’t drift with the storm. When Peter walked on water, he sank the moment he took his eyes off Jesus. Our spiritual stability depends on where we look.

How to Train Your Heart to Look Upward

Developing heavenly focus requires spiritual discipline. Here are some practical ways to train your heart:

1. Daily Scripture Reading

Start your day not with the news or social media, but with God’s Word. Let His truth shape your lens for the day.

2. Worship That Lifts the Soul

Worship shifts our focus from problems to the Problem Solver. Even in your car or kitchen, worship lifts the soul toward Heaven.

3. Prayer That Shifts Perspective

Prayer isn’t just about asking—it’s about aligning. When you pray, you’re training your spirit to depend on God’s wisdom, not your own.

4. Fasting to Silence the Noise

Sometimes, we need to quiet the world to hear Heaven. Fasting helps us die to self and tune into God’s frequency.

5. Surround Yourself with Like-Minded Believers

Isolation weakens spiritual vision. Surround yourself with people who remind you to keep looking up when you feel like giving up.

Encouragement for the Wounded and Disappointed

You may be reading this after a serious betrayal, heartbreak, or spiritual failure. You may be tired of trusting. But friend, don't stop looking up.

"He shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence... He shall cover thee with his feathers..." – Psalm 91:3–4

Heaven has never failed a single person who trusted in it. Earth may tremble, but God remains firm.

Final Thoughts: Heaven Is Enough

The truth is simple: Heaven is enough. God's grace is sufficient. His timing is perfect. His throne is unshaken.

"Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God." – Psalm 20:7

If you’ve placed your hope in people, places, or positions, now is the time to redirect it upward. The same God who helped David against Goliath, and fed Elijah in the wilderness, is still on the throne. Look up, and live.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you experienced a moment when everything failed, and God alone pulled you through? Share your story in the comments. Your testimony could lift someone else's eyes today.

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Betrayed but Not Forgotten

 

God Is Not Blind: What Scripture Says About Betrayal and Divine Reward

We live in a time when betrayal within the church has become increasingly visible. The pain and confusion that stem from such acts do not go unnoticed by God. Though it may seem that many are getting away with dishonesty, hypocrisy, and spiritual manipulation, Scripture affirms one eternal truth: God is not blind.

The Weight of Betrayal in the House of God

Betrayal is painful no matter where it happens, but when it occurs within the church—the place where love, integrity, and unity are supposed to abound—it cuts deeper. Sadly, today we see the reality of betrayal in the form of dishonesty, manipulation, spiritual abuse, and exploitation among pastors, leaders, and even members themselves.

“Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.” – Psalm 41:9 (ESV)

This Scripture paints a haunting picture of betrayal by someone close, a pattern mirrored in modern congregations where trust has been broken repeatedly by those who were once considered faithful.

When Shepherds Betray the Flock

In some cases, pastors who were ordained to feed the sheep have become wolves in disguise. Some take advantage of their position, exploiting members financially and emotionally. Some manipulate Scriptures to suit selfish agendas, while others, caught in moral failings, pretend to be holy behind the pulpit.

The damage caused by such spiritual betrayal is deep. It leads to:

• Disillusionment with the faith
• Wounds that push members away from the church
• Loss of trust in leadership
• Decline in genuine gospel fire

“Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasture!” declares the LORD. – Jeremiah 23:1 (NIV)

God is not silent about this. He sees the betrayal and will judge with righteousness. No title, robe, or microphone can hide the intents of the heart from Him.

Brother Against Brother: Church Conflicts and Spiritual Competition

Betrayal is not limited to pastors. Among members, we find jealousy, gossip, false accusations, and even slander disguised as “concern.” Brothers betray brothers, and sisters turn against sisters. Ministries have been sabotaged, marriages attacked, and lives ruined—all within the walls of the church.

“For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.” – James 3:16 (ESV)

True fellowship should reflect Christ, not competition. But in today’s churches, egos sometimes take the place of servant leadership. Instead of uplifting one another, some compete for recognition and titles.

Robbery in the Church: Financial Abuse and Lost Values

There’s an unsettling truth in some churches today: the altar has become a place where money is idolized. Some use sacred platforms as business tools. While offerings and tithes are biblical, their abuse is not. Churches that once used funds for mission work, feeding the poor, or church maintenance now sometimes use them for personal luxury.

“My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you make it a den of robbers.” – Matthew 21:13 (ESV)

Jesus’ words still ring true today. How many lives have been ruined by false promises of wealth in exchange for seeds sown? How many homes have fallen apart because members gave beyond their means out of fear of curses preached from pulpits?

The Cost of Hypocrisy at the Altar

Churches should be safe places for broken souls. But hypocrisy—when unchallenged—turns them into danger zones. When leaders preach righteousness but live in secret sin, it invites spiritual confusion. This confusion affects the next generation, who begin to question the validity of the gospel.

The altar, once a place of reverence and divine encounter, now often becomes a stage for performance, self-promotion, and marketing. Gospel-centered messages are replaced with self-help talks and personal opinions. As a result, the gospel fire has diminished.

“Having a form of godliness but denying its power. Avoid such people.” – 2 Timothy 3:5 (ESV)

God’s Justice Will Prevail

In the face of all these betrayals, one truth remains: God is not blind. His justice may be delayed, but it is never denied. No wrongdoing escapes His sight. Those who misuse their positions in the church may enjoy temporary success, but divine judgment is certain unless repentance occurs.

“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” – Galatians 6:7 (ESV)

Restoring the Fire: A Call for Repentance

The answer is not to give up on the church but to pray, repent, and return to God. Jesus is still building His church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18). But we must return to the gospel, to prayer, to holiness, and to the fear of God.

Let pastors weep between the porch and the altar. Let members seek truth over entertainment. Let churches be houses of refuge again. This is a call for repentance, revival, and restoration.

“If My people who are called by My name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven…” – 2 Chronicles 7:14 (ESV)

Encouragement for the Wounded

If you’ve been betrayed by someone in the church, know this: God saw it. He grieves with you. But don’t let the failure of man drive you away from the love of God. Not all are corrupt. There are still true believers. There are still sincere pastors. And above all, there is still Jesus—unchanging and faithful.

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3 (NIV)

Conclusion: God Sees, God Judges, God Rewards

The church may be facing difficult days, but God is still on the throne. His eyes are open. His ears hear. He will judge betrayal and reward faithfulness. Let us choose to walk in truth, uphold integrity, and serve Christ sincerely. For when all is said and done, it is not man who will reward us—but God Himself.

“Behold, I am coming soon, bringing My recompense with Me, to repay each one for what he has done.” – Revelation 22:12 (ESV)

May we be found faithful. May we shine brighter, even in a dark time. And may the fire of the gospel be rekindled in our hearts and churches.

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Focus on What Truly Matters

 

Focus on What Truly Matters: Choosing Purpose Over Pressure

In a world of noise, distractions, and endless demands, it’s easy to get swept into a current of urgency that leads nowhere meaningful. The clock ticks, notifications ping, and another week passes—but do you ever pause and ask yourself: “Am I living the life I was created for?”

This post is your gentle reminder to slow down and realign. It’s time to shift from chaos to clarity, from chasing to cherishing, and from survival to significance. Let’s explore how to focus on what truly matters and build a life that brings glory to God and deep satisfaction to your soul.

1. The Quiet Voice of Purpose

We live in a productivity-driven culture that celebrates being busy. But being busy doesn’t always mean being effective. We often pursue things that look impressive to others, but deep down, we know they leave us feeling unfulfilled.

“Purpose is not found in perfection, but in obedience to God’s call.”

Start asking yourself the questions that matter: What fuels me? What legacy am I leaving behind? Am I chasing success or significance?

Your purpose is rooted in who you are in Christ, not in what the world expects. When you reconnect with your purpose, life becomes more peaceful—even if your pace slows down.

2. Relationships Over Recognition

We often chase approval from people we may never even meet in real life. Social media likes and public applause can feel satisfying in the moment, but they fade quickly. What truly endures are the relationships built on love, loyalty, and truth.

“At the end of your life, you won’t care about your follower count—you’ll care about who held your hand when you were in pain.”

Focus on your marriage, your children, your siblings, your aging parents, your church family. Make time for real conversations, for prayer together, for laughter around the table. Your relationships are a sacred space—treat them with reverence.

3. Faith Over Fear

Fear can paralyze us. It tells us to stay safe, avoid risk, and protect ourselves at all costs. But faith calls us to trust the unseen, to walk in obedience even when it’s hard, and to believe that God is with us through every valley and mountain.

“Faith doesn’t always take the shortest path—but it always leads to God’s best.”

When you focus on faith, fear loses its grip. You begin to live not just for today, but for eternity. You stop asking, “What if it goes wrong?” and start asking, “What if God wants to do something new?”

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” — Matthew 6:33

4. Character Over Comfort

Growth is uncomfortable. Integrity is costly. Obedience is inconvenient. But these are the things that build lasting character. The world values convenience, but the kingdom of God values transformation.

When you prioritize character over comfort, you choose:

• Truth over popularity
• Patience over instant gratification
• Kindness over revenge

“Comfort may soothe you, but character will carry you.”

God is more interested in your holiness than your convenience. And in His hands, your trials are tools to mold you into someone who reflects His heart.

5. Eternal Over Temporary

How much of your energy goes toward things that won’t matter in a year, let alone in eternity? We’re trained to obsess over wealth, fashion, status, and possessions—but none of these things last.

“Live for the applause of heaven, not the approval of men.”

Invest your time in things that have eternal value: people, faith, Scripture, acts of service. These things echo into eternity long after your life on earth ends.

6. Margin Over Madness

We are not machines. You were not created to go full speed all the time. Without margin, your soul suffocates. With margin, you find joy, peace, creativity, and rest.

“If the devil can’t make you sin, he’ll make you busy.” — Corrie ten Boom

Make space in your day to pray, reflect, read, breathe. Say no to some good things so you can say yes to the best things. Margin is not laziness—it’s wisdom.

7. Purpose Over Pressure

The world puts pressure on you to be everything, do everything, and have everything. But God simply calls you to be faithful. The pressure to impress will exhaust you. The calling to serve will fulfill you.

“Purpose brings peace, but pressure brings panic.”

Let go of what’s crushing you. Embrace what’s calling you. When you walk in purpose, your soul breathes again. And you stop competing—because you finally know who you are.

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…” — Hebrews 12:2

8. Stillness Over Striving

Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is be still. Not everything needs your reaction. Not every battle is yours to fight. God moves mightily in stillness—if you’ll let Him.

“Be still, and know that I am God…” — Psalm 46:10

When you slow down, you begin to see. You hear His whispers. You feel His guidance. And you start to walk—not rush—in step with His Spirit.

9. Generosity Over Greed

Greed is deceptive. It always whispers, “Just a little more.” But generosity sets you free. It reminds you that everything you have is from God—and for others.

“You have never really lived until you’ve given with no expectation of return.”

Be generous with your time, your words, your resources. Give when it’s inconvenient. Serve when it’s uncomfortable. In doing so, you reflect the very heart of God.

10. Love Over Legalism

God didn’t call us to religion without relationship. He called us to love—deep, compassionate, sacrificial love that looks like Jesus.

“Love is not weakness; it is the greatest strength the world has ever seen.”

Let love guide your actions. Let it soften your speech. Let it interrupt your plans. Because in the end, only love will remain.

Conclusion: A Life That Counts

So, what truly matters?

Living with purpose. Building meaningful relationships. Trusting God more than your fears. Pursuing character over comfort. Investing in the eternal. Creating margin. Following your divine calling. Embracing stillness. Giving generously. And walking in love.

“You weren’t made to do everything. You were made to do what matters most.”

It’s time to realign. Refocus. And live the life that truly matters.

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Rediscovering Grace, Growth, and God's Purpose in the Wake of Change

 

It’s Not What Time Steals That Matters—It’s What It Leaves Behind

Time is a strange teacher. It moves without asking, takes without warning, and often leaves us standing in the middle of change wondering what just happened. Life changes—relationships drift, opportunities pass, loved ones are lost, and dreams shift. But amid all that is taken, what truly matters is what remains. In the wake of loss, we are given the invitation to rediscover grace, growth, and God’s purpose.

1. When Time Moves On Without Us

Have you ever felt like life changed before you had the chance to prepare for it? Like a chapter was closed and you weren’t ready to let go? Whether it's the death of a loved one, a job loss, relocation, or personal heartbreak, sudden changes can feel like a theft. Time robs us of what was—but in that emptiness, it also whispers of what still is and what can be.

“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1

God allows seasons not to punish us, but to prepare us. If we focus only on what time has stolen, we risk missing the treasures left behind—spiritual resilience, hidden strength, and deeper intimacy with God.

2. Rediscovering Grace in the Wilderness

Grace is not just for the moments when we feel strong; it is especially for the wilderness. When you find yourself stripped of comfort and certainty, grace arrives not in loud declarations, but in subtle ways—quiet strength to wake up, courage to keep moving, and mercy that meets you in tears.

“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9

The apostle Paul learned that God's grace doesn't always come in the form of deliverance. Sometimes, it shows up as endurance. Grace teaches us to lean on God rather than our understanding. It reminds us that even when we feel we’ve lost everything, God is still present.

3. Growth Through Broken Ground

It is in broken soil that seeds take root. Similarly, life’s trials often till the hardened places in our hearts. Change, although painful, has the potential to become a fertile ground for spiritual maturity. The process is not easy, but it is sacred.

“But we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope.” – Romans 5:3–4

Every tear shed, every silent prayer whispered, becomes a watering of the soul. Growth may not always be visible immediately, but it is always happening underneath the surface. God does not waste pain; He transforms it into purpose.

4. What Time Leaves Behind: A New Lens

Time changes how we see. What used to matter may fade in importance. What we once ignored becomes precious. In the wake of significant change, we begin to view life differently—not through the lens of fear, but of eternal purpose.

“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” – Colossians 3:2

When we lose something temporal, we often find something eternal. Time strips away illusions and distractions, leaving behind what truly matters: faith, love, truth, and the deep awareness of God’s sovereignty. Pain doesn’t just change our path—it changes our vision.

5. Finding God's Purpose in the Rubble

Purpose is not always found in clarity; sometimes it’s discovered in chaos. God’s plans are not derailed by what you’ve lost. In fact, the detour might be His divine direction.

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28

The loss of a job may push you toward a calling you ignored. The heartbreak may lead you to a relationship that’s healthier. The death of a loved one may draw you deeper into the arms of God. His purpose never ends with pain—it flows through it.

6. Anchored in Hope: You’re Still Standing

If you’re reading this, it means you’ve survived something. You’re still standing. You may be limping, yes. You may be weary. But you’re standing—and that is proof that grace has held you.

“When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee...they shall not overflow thee.” – Isaiah 43:2

The journey ahead is not about avoiding more change, but learning to walk through it with wisdom. And even more, with worship. Let your survival become your story. Let your scars become your sermon.

7. The Power of Remembering What Remains

Rather than focusing on what’s gone, focus on what remains:

• Your faith is still intact.
• Your heart still beats.
• Your calling is still alive.
• Your God is still good.

Time will always move, but your spirit doesn’t have to be swept away. Remember what remains—love, lessons, strength, and vision. God has not changed even when your world has.

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” – Hebrews 13:8

8. Living From What Was Left Behind

In the wake of change, live from what was left behind—not what was taken. Let grace lead your actions. Let growth inspire your discipline. Let God’s purpose guide your decisions.

You were never meant to stay stuck in what was lost. You are being shaped by what remains. And in that place, God meets you—not with shame or guilt, but with renewed purpose.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” – Isaiah 43:18–19 (NIV)

That “new thing” begins in you. Not in circumstances changing—but in you changing through circumstances. You may not be who you used to be, but you are becoming who God designed you to be.

9. Practical Ways to Rediscover God's Purpose

If you're in the middle of a life transition or recovering from a major shift, here are some ways to begin walking in grace and rediscovering purpose:

• Journal your journey – Write about your pain, your prayers, and your progress.
• Pray honestly – God can handle your emotions. Be real with Him.
• Re-evaluate your calling – What is God trying to stir in you?
• Talk to someone – Sometimes healing starts with being heard.
• Serve others – Purpose is often unlocked through service.

Healing is a process, but so is rediscovery. As you move forward, know that God is not just restoring you—He’s redefining you.

10. Final Thoughts: Beauty in What Remains

Yes, time may have stolen something precious. But don’t let it rob you of hope. What remains can be more powerful than what was lost—because what remains is eternal, meaningful, and anchored in Christ.

“For which cause we faint not...though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.” – 2 Corinthians 4:16

Let this post be your reminder: It’s not what time stole that defines your story. It’s what God left behind that will shape your destiny.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

What has time taken from you—and what have you discovered in its place? Share your testimony in the comments. Let’s build each other up, as we walk forward in grace, grow in faith, and live boldly in God’s eternal purpose.

Tagged: Rediscovering God’s Purpose, Grace After Loss, Spiritual Growth, Christian Encouragement, Change and Faith, Richems.com

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🏆 Are You Ready? Living Each Day in the Light of His Return

The return of Jesus Christ is one of the most profound and hope-filled promises in Scripture. It is not a fantasy or fiction — it is reality. Yet, as time moves on and the distractions of daily life increase, many believers grow sleepy, complacent, or forgetful about this glorious event. This post is a wake-up call: Are you ready? Are you truly living your life in the light of His return?

1. The Promise of His Return

Jesus didn't leave us without a roadmap. Before He ascended to heaven, He left a clear promise:

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions... I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go... I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” — John 14:1-3 (KJV)

This is not a metaphor. This is not poetic language. It is a declaration of a future reality: Jesus will come again. He’s coming not only to fulfill prophecy, but also to bring His people home.

2. What Does It Mean to Be Ready?

Being ready for His return isn’t about panic or fear. It's about living with daily awareness, holy expectation, and spiritual discipline. It’s a lifestyle, not a moment of sudden realization. Readiness is proven by how we live when we think no one is watching.

“Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” — Matthew 24:44 (KJV)

Christ’s return will be sudden. There won’t be time to go back and fix a double life, mend a broken relationship, or finally obey a call you’ve been ignoring. Are you living as if Jesus could come back today?

3. The Signs of the Times

Jesus gave us clues — signs that would mark the season of His return: wars, rumors of wars, natural disasters, moral decline, persecution of the church, and false prophets. These aren’t just headlines — they are warnings.

“And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars... For nation shall rise against nation... and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.” — Matthew 24:6-7 (KJV)

We’re living in the season of prophetic acceleration. These signs are not meant to scare us but to awaken us. Are you still sleeping spiritually, or are you watching, praying, and preparing?

4. Living as a Wise Servant

Jesus told the parable of the wise and foolish servants. The wise servant is faithful even when his master delays. He does not live to please himself, but continues in duty, accountability, and purpose.

“Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.” — Matthew 24:46 (KJV)

Don't live carelessly just because He hasn't come yet. Don't say “there's still time.” Tomorrow isn’t promised — but eternity is. Keep your oil burning. Be watchful.

5. The Bride and the Bridegroom

The return of Christ is like the return of a bridegroom for His bride — unexpected but joyous. The wise virgins in Matthew 25 had oil in their lamps, ready to meet the bridegroom. The foolish were shut out.

“Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.” — Matthew 25:13 (KJV)

Have you trimmed your lamp? Is your life filled with the oil of the Holy Spirit? Are you ready to be caught up in glory or will you be left knocking, crying, “Lord, Lord, open to us”?

6. Living in Holiness and Purity

No man can predict the exact hour of Christ’s return, but the Bible is clear — He is returning for a bride without spot or wrinkle. Holiness is not an option; it’s a necessity.

“And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” — 1 John 3:3 (KJV)

What sin are you excusing that you need to confess? What habits are entangling your walk? If you knew Jesus was returning at midnight tonight, what would you do differently today?

7. Be Found Doing His Will

The mark of readiness is not just about staying clean but staying busy — working in the Father’s vineyard. Your salvation is not just a ticket to heaven; it’s a call to labor for souls.

“Occupy till I come.” — Luke 19:13 (KJV)

Are you serving, giving, praying, witnessing, building the Kingdom? Don't be a buried-talent Christian. Time is short. Eternity is forever. Your purpose is not just for earth — it's to be ready to meet your Master.

8. Guarding Against Deception

In the last days, deception will increase. False teachers, diluted doctrines, and counterfeit miracles will abound. The enemy knows his time is short and he will try to drag many down with him.

“For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.” — Matthew 24:5 (KJV)

You must stay grounded in truth. Read your Bible. Know what God says. The Holy Spirit is your compass, not culture. Don’t trade eternal truth for temporary comfort.

9. Encouraging One Another with This Hope

The return of Jesus isn’t just something we keep quietly in our hearts. It’s a hope we must share, teach, and encourage one another with.

“Wherefore comfort one another with these words.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:18 (KJV)

Are you lifting others up with the truth that Jesus is coming soon? Are you inspiring your family, church, and community to live prepared? Are you spreading urgency and hope?

10. What If He Came Today?

Pause for a moment. Ask yourself seriously: If Christ returned this moment, where would you stand? Would you be caught up in joy or paralyzed by regret? What would He find you doing?

“Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” — Revelation 22:12 (KJV)

This is not fear-mongering. This is the call of eternity. Jesus is not a myth or a memory — He is the coming King. And He will not delay forever. Are you ready?

11. How to Live Each Day in the Light of His Return

• Wake up daily with gratitude and spiritual alertness.
• Confess sin quickly. Live pure and walk in repentance.
• Spend time in the Word and prayer daily — stay fueled with oil.
• Keep short accounts with people. Forgive and reconcile.
• Serve with joy. Share the gospel boldly.
• Listen to the Holy Spirit and obey God promptly.
• Don’t be entangled with worldly pleasures and sin.
• Stay connected to the Body of Christ — community matters.

Conclusion: The Final Wake-Up Call

We’re not promised next year. We’re not promised next week. Every sunrise is mercy. Every heartbeat is a reminder: Christ is coming again. Not as a baby in a manger, but as King of kings, Judge of the earth, Bridegroom of the Church.

“Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” — Revelation 22:20 (KJV)

Beloved, it’s time to live ready. Not in fear, but in purpose. Not in panic, but in purity. Not hiding, but shining. The trumpet will sound. The sky will split. Eternity will begin.

Are you ready?

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