Everything we possess on earth is temporary, but the rewards of faithful service to God are eternal. Houses, money, possessions, positions, and earthly achievements will eventually pass away. No matter how much a person accumulates in this world, none of these things can be taken beyond the grave. This is why Jesus warned us not to become consumed with gathering earthly possessions while neglecting spiritual treasures. There is nothing wrong with possessing material things, but it is dangerous when material things possess our hearts. God wants us to use what He has entrusted to us for His glory, the advancement of His Kingdom, and the good of others. Our time, abilities, influence, finances, and opportunities can all be invested in things that have eternal value. Every act of obedience, sacrifice, generosity, and faithful service rendered unto God has significance beyond this present life. As believers awaiting the return of Christ, we must constantly examine where our hearts and priorities are. We should not live as though this present world is our permanent home. Let us seek the things that are above and use our earthly lives to prepare for eternity. Where our treasure is, our hearts will also be. Scriptural Readings for the Day Matthew 6:19–21 (KJV) 19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 1 Timothy 6:17–19 (KJV) 17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; 18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. Colossians 3:1–2 (KJV) 1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. Prayer Father, help me not to live only for the temporary things of this world. Teach me to invest my life in Your Kingdom and lay up treasures that will last forever. Amen.
Every believer will one day stand before Christ to give an account of his or her life and service. This judgment should remind us that our actions, words, and service matter to God. We are saved by grace, but we will still answer for how we have lived and served after receiving Christ. Nothing we do for the Lord is insignificant, and our faithfulness will be brought into consideration before Him. We should therefore examine our lives continually and make sure that we are using our time, gifts, and opportunities for the glory of God. The reality of standing before Christ should motivate us to pursue holiness, serve Him sincerely, and remain faithful until the end. Let us therefore live faithfully with eternity in view. Scriptural Readings for the Day 2 Corinthians 5:10 (KJV) “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” Romans 14:12 (KJV) “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” Prayer Lord Jesus, help me to live and serve faithfully, knowing that I will one day give an account to You. May my life and work bring glory to Your name. Amen.
Salvation is the precious gift of God through faith in Jesus Christ, but our works as believers will also be examined. First Corinthians 3:13–15 shows that every man’s work will be tested by fire, and while a person may be saved, his works may suffer loss. This reminds us that being saved is not the same as receiving every possible reward. Let us therefore serve God faithfully, knowing that our labour for Him is not in vain and that we will give an account of how we have lived and worked for His Kingdom. Scriptural Readings for the Day 1 Corinthians 3:13–15 (KJV) “Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.” 2 Corinthians 5:10 (KJV) “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” Revelation 22:12 (KJV) “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Prayer Father, help me to remain faithful in serving You and to build my life and ministry upon what will endure. May my works bring glory to Your name and receive a reward when they are tested. Keep me faithful until the end, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Jesus expects His servants to remain faithful and productive while they wait for His return. Waiting for Christ does not mean withdrawing from responsibility or becoming idle. We are to faithfully carry out the work He has placed in our hands until He comes. Let us remain busy in God’s service and not waste the time we have been given. Scriptural Readings for the Day Luke 19:13 (KJV) “And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.” 1 Corinthians 3:13 (KJV) “Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire…” Romans 12:11 (KJV) “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;” Prayer Father, help me to faithfully occupy the place and fulfil the responsibilities You have given me. Keep me diligent and fruitful until Jesus returns. Amen.
The return of Christ will take place at a time that many people do not expect. Therefore, spiritual readiness cannot be postponed until tomorrow or reserved for special occasions. We must live faithfully every day, knowing that any day could be the day of His appearing. The best way to prepare for Christ’s coming is to walk faithfully with Him now. Scriptural Readings for the Day Luke 12:35-36 (KJV) “35 Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; 36 And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding…” Matthew 24:44 (KJV) “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” Mark 13:35-37 (KJV) “35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh… 36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.” Prayer Lord Jesus, help me to live every day in readiness for Your coming. Keep me from spiritual laziness and help me to remain watchful and faithful at all times. Amen.
God’s grace is available today, but the opportunity to prepare will not remain open forever. In the parable of the ten virgins, the door was eventually shut, and those who were unprepared could no longer enter. This should teach us the urgency of repentance, obedience, and readiness. We must respond to God while there is still time. Scriptural Readings for the Day Matthew 25:10 (KJV) “And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.” Luke 13:24-25 (KJV) 24 Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. 25 When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are Prayer Merciful Father, help me never to take Your grace for granted. Give me a heart that responds to Your Word today and remains ready for the coming of Jesus Christ. Amen.
