THROUGH THE BIBLE IN THREE YEARS
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The plane had taken off without incident. However, after about an hour into the flight, the captain came on the intercom. He said, "Folks, I have some bad news and some good news. The bad news is that all our instruments are out, and we cannot tell exactly which direction we are headed. The good news is that we have a tail wind of about 80 MPH. Soooo, wherever we're goin', we're gettin there FAST!"
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1 Thess 5:6
Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
KJV
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Most of humanity has practically the same problem as the captain of the plane above. They don't know where they are going, but they're gettin' there FAST!
A lifespan today, in the USA, averages 75 years of age. That's not a long time. And in other parts of the world, that lifespan is shorter. But what comes AFTER that lifespan? "...it is appointed to man once to die, and after this the judgment!" (Hebrews 9:27)
While we are on this brief journey, "...let us not sleep!" The destination after the journey is of eternal importance! If we allow ourselves to fall into spiritual sleep, we cannot help others on the journey. Vigilance and diligence are required in order to maintain alertness. How do we maintain this spiritual alertness and not fall into spiritual sleep?
Prayer and Bible study are important. Being involved in daily study and prayer helps us maintain our focus on Christ and His eternal heaven. We must be like the farmer when he is plowing his field. We must look to that point BEYOND in order to keep a straight line.
If we isolate ourselves, and walk alone, we are very likely to grow drowsy on the journey. Therefore, in order to promote alertness, we should maintain Christian company. Fellowship with other Christians is important to sharpening our wits, increasing our education, and developing skill to share with others about Jesus.
Be aware that the ole devil lurks in the byways. He does not have to make us fall. He only needs entice us to loiter on the way. Others are not impressed to follow if we are not expressing desire and focus during the journey. 1 Peter 5:8 says, "Be sober , be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:"
And above all, let us preach! Sharing the gospel with others keeps us from falling to temptations. When we constantly communicate with others about the wonder of salvation from sin, and the glory of heaven, we will not be tempted by the "garbage" of the world.
Let us make our journey meaningful and useful. "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;" (Heb 12:2), let us maintain diligence and vigilance in our brief time here. Then we will find our journey is more enjoyable.
Love ya,
Bruce