From a sermon by George Wright, Teaching Associate, RFTH

“The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.”  1 Peter 4:7

Embracing the brevity of the time you have in this life can cause you to freak out!

But don’t! 

Because, as you might contemplate your last day, remember that Jesus is the winner!

If you are in Christ, that means you also win. This good news should create in you a steady confidence and peace because it is founded upon the promise and hope of the gospel. While it is true that this life is short and we don’t know when our final day will take place, this life is not the end of the story. What waits for those in Christ beyond this life is far better than anything we can experience in this life!

As the apostle Paul said in Philippians 1:21, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

If our lives are about Christ, we still have hope even on our worst days. On our final day, we enter an eternal reality that far exceeds the best days of this life. Jesus wins, and because we are in Christ, we win!

Peter says this mentality should impact the way we pray. How is this so? Well, instead of freaking out about the final day, the follower of Christ should be self-controlled and sober-minded. 

Maybe a prayer like this would be appropriate: 

“Father, help me make the most of this day you have given me. Help me remember that You are coming again to correct every wrong and make everything new. Help me to live in light of eternity and live my life for Your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen”

Keeping an eye on eternity (living with the end in mind) is essential to the Christian life.

Let’s pray, trusting and believing that Jesus is on the throne and everything will go His way!

DIG DEEPER
Read “Will You Face the End With Fear or Faith?” by Bryant Wright