Stay Ready

Verse of The Day: Luke 12:35

“Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning”

Jesus gives us a picture of someone who is prepared. Their clothing is gathered so they can move quickly, and their lamp is already burning because they are expecting someone to arrive.

This is how Jesus wants His followers to live.

Readiness is not about living in fear of the future. It is about living faithfully in the present. A burning lamp speaks of a life that remains spiritually awake, while a girded waist speaks of someone prepared to respond when called.

It is possible to love God and still become distracted. Responsibilities increase. Prayers become hurried. Scripture becomes something we intend to read later. Before long, the fire that once burned brightly begins to grow dim.

Jesus reminds us not to become spiritually careless.

Keep your lamp burning through prayer, the Word, fellowship, obedience and continual dependence on the Holy Spirit. Keep yourself ready by doing faithfully what God has placed before you today.

We do not know when Christ will return, but readiness is more than waiting for His return. It is also being available for His purpose now.

There may be someone God wants you to encourage. There may be an opportunity to serve, give, pray or speak about Christ. The question is not only, “Is Jesus coming?” but also, “If He calls me today, am I ready to respond?”

Reflection:

What has been occupying your attention lately? Is your spiritual lamp burning brightly, or have distractions slowly weakened your devotion? What would being ready for God look like in your life today?

Prayer:

Father, keep my heart awake and sensitive to You. Help me to live faithfully and expectantly as I wait for Your return. Keep the fire of devotion burning within me and make me ready to respond whenever You call.

Further Bible Reading:

Luke 12:35-40; Matthew 25:1-13; Romans 13:11-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:4-8