Hosanna David MessagesThe Lord is coming for a holy people. Holiness is not optional for those who desire to see God. We must separate ourselves from sin and pursue righteousness daily. Scriptural Readings 1 John 3:2-3 KJV 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. Hebrews 12:14 (KJV) Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: 1 Peter 1:15-16 (KJV) 15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. 2 Corinthians 7:1 (KJV) Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Spiritual sleep makes people insensitive to God’s warnings. Many Christians have become comfortable and careless. The Lord calls His people to wake up, be alert, and walk in holiness. Romans 13:11-14 (KJV) 11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. 12 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. 13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. 14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
Many people assume they are ready for heaven, but Jesus warned that not everyone who calls Him Lord will enter the Kingdom. Salvation requires genuine faith, repentance, and obedience to God. Matthew 7:21-23 (KJV) 21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Luke 13:24 (KJV) Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. John 4:23-24 KJV 23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
The thought of Christ’s return should influence how we live daily. We should strive to please God, avoid sin, and remain faithful in our service. Every day is an opportunity to prepare for eternity. 1 John 3:2-3 (KJV) 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. Titus 2:11-13 (KJV) 11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
Jesus told the parable of ten virgins to teach us the importance of readiness. Five were wise and prepared; five were foolish and unprepared. When the bridegroom came, only those who were ready entered the marriage feast. Make sure your spiritual life is not empty. Matthew 25:1-4 (KJV) 1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. 2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: 4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
