Living in Light of End Times: Faithful and Responsible Living
Living in the last days, knowing that Jesus will return, is important for all believers. Let’s explore how we can live faithfully and responsibly, with encouragement and hope from the Bible.
Living Faithfully and Responsibly
- Staying Close to God
Example: Imagine having a best friend you always talk to and trust. It’s like that with God—you can talk to Him and trust Him every day.
Key Passage: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Scripture: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Explanation: We can live faithfully by staying close to God through prayer, always being thankful, and trusting Him in everything we do.
Story: Think about a time when you were worried or scared, but talking to a close friend made you feel better. Talking to God through prayer can also help us feel better and closer to Him.
- Obeying God’s Word
Example: Imagine following rules that keep you safe and happy, like following traffic signs when crossing the street.
Key Passage: James 1:22
Scripture: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
Explanation: We can live responsibly by obeying what God’s Word, the Bible, tells us to do. It’s like following a guidebook for life that keeps us on the right path.
Story: Just like following rules helps us stay safe, obeying God’s Word helps us make good choices and live in a way that pleases Him.
Encouragement and Hope for Believers
- Hope in Jesus’ Return
Example: Imagine waiting for a special birthday or holiday, feeling excited because something good is coming soon. Believers feel this way about Jesus’ return.
Key Passage: John 14:3
Scripture: “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
Explanation: Jesus promised to come back for us so that we can be with Him forever. This gives us hope and excitement for the future.
Story: Think about how happy you feel when you know something good is coming soon. Believers feel this way because they know Jesus is coming back to take them to be with Him.
- Encouraging One Another
Example: Imagine helping a friend who is feeling sad or scared, showing them you care and helping them feel better. Believers can do this for each other too.
Key Passage: 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Scripture: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Explanation: We can encourage each other by showing love, helping, and reminding each other of God’s promises. This helps us stay strong and hopeful.
Story: Think about a time when someone encouraged you and made you feel better. Believers can do this for each other by reminding them of God’s love and promises.
Conclusion
Living in the last days means living with faith and responsibility. Here’s a summary of what we’ve learned:
- Living Faithfully and Responsibly:
- Stay close to God through prayer and trust Him.
- Obey God’s Word and follow His guidance.
- Encouragement and Hope for Believers:
- Look forward to Jesus’ return with hope and excitement.
- Encourage each other and remind each other of God’s promises.
Scriptural Encouragement: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
By living faithfully and encouraging each other, we can look forward to the future with hope and joy, knowing that God is with us and has a wonderful plan for our lives. Keep trusting Him and living for Him every day!
