Be Alert
Read the Text: Revelation 16
Memorize the Text:
I heard the altar say, Yes, Lord God, the Almighty, true and just are your judgments.
(Revelation 16:17, CSB)
Consider the Text: Revelation 16:15-16
The world has a way of causing believers to become comfortable and unaware of the dynamics around them. The threat exists for conformity to occur, and we become complacent and no longer aware of the coming Messiah. We begin to live more like the world, and if the return remains distant. In Revelation 16, the apostle John charged believers to be alert because the time of Christ's return is unknown, a threat exists concerning prophets, and the need to remain faithful to the Lord.
BE ALERT FOR THE RETURN IS UNKNOWN
John explains that the return of Christ happens as a thief coming under cover of night. The significance rest on the unknown nature. Believers must remain alert, prepare for the return, and not be surprised. A thief that attacks at night when no one is alert stuns the homeowner, who cannot respond. In Christ, the believer must remain alert awaiting the return of Christ. We must never be surprised but remain alert, expecting Christ’s return. Are you awaiting the return in alertness?
BE ALERT TO NAVIGATE THE FALSE PROPHETS
Believers need to remain alert to navigate the threat of false prophets. False prophets seek to cause confusion and chaos in the lives of believers and the world. They attempt to lead people away from the Lord and establish their kingdoms. When believers fail to remain alert, they can become influenced by these false prophets because of their weakened spiritual state. They hear enough of the truth in the lies and fall prey to them. Thus, we must seek to remain alert to combat the threat of false prophets.
BE ALERT TO REMAIN FAITHFUL TO THE LORD
The call to remain alert exists to await the Lord’s return and navigate the threat of false prophets. At the same time, believers must remain alert and faithful to the Lord. When one does not remain alert, one ignores details which leads to a state of unfaithfulness. When one stays alert, they seek to grow in Christ and live in faithfulness. When they remain alert, believers set a course of spiritual growth and faithfulness in living for Christ. Thus, we must remain faithful to the Lord for His return.
This blog is part of the Coffee and Quiet Time with Jesus Devotional Series found at equippingfaith.com. Join the journey of reading through the New Testament this year. More information can be found at equippingfaith.com.
