Watch and Pray (1 Peter 4:7)

SPIRITUAL DIARY

                                                                                                Date:  02-04-04

My Worship Time                                          Focus:  Watch and pray

Bible Reading & Meditation                         Reference:  1Peter 4:7

            Message of the verse:  “The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer.”  (NASB95)  “The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers.” (NLT)

            I don’t believe that Peter was giving an indication that the second coming of Christ was near, in as far as giving a date, but he was saying that it could happen at any time.  Because of this truth that Christ could return for His Church at any time, Peter was giving some instructions on how believers should live.  He writes in this verse that believers should be of sound judgment.  This could be translated as “keeping our cool,” in today’s language.  It also means that we should keep things in balance, as the Bible is a book of balance.  Because it is a truth that is taught in the Bible concerning the second coming of Christ, believers should not go off to some mountain and hang out until Christ’s return, but they should realize that there is still much work to be done, and be about the business of living a balanced life for the cause of Christ, being available to do what He would have them do.  The believer’s prayer life should also be affected by this truth, being earnest in his prayers because of the shortness of time.

            Spiritual meaning for my life today:  One of the most important things that I have learned from my study of the Scriptures is balance, for the Bible does indeed teach balance.  I have always been one to go on tangents, but as God has shown me the need to have balance in my walk with Him, He is teaching me more and more the importance of balance.  God is in control of all things, and I am only hear on this earth to glorify Him, and to do the work that He has had planned for me since eternity past.  This world is not my home, for I am just passing through. Like a warm up lap around the track in preparation for the real thing, which will last forever.

The Word of God has challenge me to stay in balance, and also to give more thought to my prayer life.

My Steps of Faith Today:  To continue to trust the Lord in the trials He has sent our way, knowing that they are for our good and for His glory.