But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life. – Luke 21:34
A survey published in June 2010 revealed that 41 percent of Americans expected that they would see the return of Jesus to Earth by 2050. The same research conducted by the Pew Research Center showed that 46 percent believe “it probably or definitely won’t happen.” Jesus has promised that He will come again. Former president and chancellor of Moody Bible Institute, Dr. George Sweeting, wrote, “One in every 30 New Testament verses refer to the second coming. More than a fourth of the Bible is predictive prophecy. Approximately one-third of it has yet to be fulfilled. … For every prophecy on the first coming of Christ, there are 8 on Christ’s second coming.”
Jesus warned about indulgence. A Christ-follower is called to live a life of integrity in every respect. “Keep your heart with all vigilance” (Proverbs 4:23). Various versions of today’s verse begin, “Be on guard,” “Watch out,” “Take heed,” or “Beware.” The Greek word prosecho is a present imperative command to continually be attentive and give heed. To obey necessitates continual dependence on the Holy Spirit. Jesus actually gives several warnings in this section of the Olivet Discourse. Watch out, stay awake, pray, keep up your strength. All these are essential for the believer today as the end times draw ever closer.
Theologian John Piper says, “To be spiritually awake and alert is to be in love with the Lord’s coming.” Many are waiting for Christ’s return, but how many are watching? If He should come today, are you ready? Be spiritually aware and attentive. Keep in close fellowship with Christ and walk in the light of His presence with you. Pray for a greater awareness among believers in America of Christ’s return so that they (and you) may live with greater anticipation.
Today’s Verse: Luke 21:34
“But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Luke 21:25-28,34-36
25 “And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, 26 people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
34 “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. 35 For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
