Jesus warned that wars and rumours of wars would characterize the period leading toward the end. However, He also warned His disciples not to be troubled, because these things would not by themselves mean that the end had immediately arrived. We should therefore watch the developments of the world without fear or sensationalism. Most importantly, we must keep our hearts prepared for the coming of Christ. Scriptural Readings for the Day Matthew 24:6-8 (KJV) 6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.” Mark 13:33 (KJV) “Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.” Prayer Lord, keep my heart from fear and confusion as I see events unfolding around the world. Help me to watch, pray, and remain prepared for Your coming. Amen
The prophet Daniel spoke of a time when knowledge would increase. We live in an age of extraordinary scientific, technological, and informational advancement, but increased knowledge does not automatically produce increased righteousness. Human beings are becoming more knowledgeable while becoming spiritually farther from God. Therefore, let us seek not only knowledge about the world but wisdom from God’s Word.
Scriptural Readings for the Day
Daniel 12:4 (KJV) “But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.”
Proverbs 1:7 (KJV) “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Hosea 4:6 (KJV) “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee…”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me wisdom that comes from You. Help me not to be impressed only by worldly knowledge, but to know Your Word and walk in Your truth. Amen.
When the Increase of Knowledge Hardens Men’s Hearts
The Bible warns that the last days will be characterized by widespread selfishness, pride, disobedience, greed, and godlessness. These conditions should remind us that we are living in serious times. Rather than allowing the darkness around us to influence our lives, we must remain faithful to Christ. Let us continue in the truth even when righteousness becomes unpopular. Scriptural Readings for the Day 2 Timothy 3:1-2, 4-5 (KJV) “1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” Romans 13:12 (KJV) “The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.” Prayer Father, keep me faithful in these perilous times. Help me to reject the spirit of this age and live a life that honours You. Amen.
While we may live as though we have all the time in the world, there are saints who have been waiting for centuries and even thousands of years. They suffered and died for their faith, yet they are still waiting for the day when God will bring justice, comfort His people, and reward His faithful servants. Their cry, “How long, O Lord?” reminds us that Christ’s return is not only about our escape from this troubled world but also about the fulfilment of God’s promises to all who have patiently waited for Him. Scriptural Readings for the Day Revelation 6:10-11 KJV 10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? 11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled. 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 Lord, help me to wait patiently and remain faithful, knowing that You have not forgotten Your people. Strengthen my heart as I look forward to the day when You will bring justice, comfort Your saints, and reward the faithful. Amen.
Jesus commanded His disciples to recognize the signs that would precede His coming. These signs are not given to satisfy curiosity but to awaken us to spiritual watchfulness and preparation. We should not become obsessed with predicting dates, because no one knows the exact day or hour. Instead, we should examine the times, remain spiritually awake, and make sure our lives are ready for Christ. Scriptural Readings for the Day Matthew 24:33, 42(KJV) “33. So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. 42. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.” Luke 21:28 (KJV) “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” Prayer Lord Jesus, help me to understand the times without being distracted by speculation. Keep me spiritually awake and ready for Your appearing. Amen.
