Main Scripture:
2 Corinthians 9:3–5 | Matthew 24:44
We spend so much of our lives preparing for things that may or may not happen, yet sometimes neglect preparing for what God has already told us will happen. We prepare for our careers, families, retirement, and tomorrow's responsibilities, but how much attention are we giving to the condition of our souls?
The Apostle Paul instructed the Corinthians to have their promised gift ready before the brethren arrived. His message was simple: don't wait until the moment comes to do what you already knew needed to be done. Jesus taught this same importance of readiness through the parable of the ten virgins. All ten expected the bridegroom, but only five were prepared when he arrived.
Revelation 22:11 gives us a sobering warning about the finality of our spiritual condition when the opportunity for repentance has passed. We cannot continue putting off obedience, forgiveness, repentance, and the responsibilities God has entrusted to us while assuming there will always be more time.
God has given us His Word, extended His mercy, and provided the opportunity to make things right through Jesus Christ. But preparation requires a response. Noah didn't wait for the rain before building the ark, and Joseph didn't wait for the famine before storing provisions.
The question isn't whether Christ will return. He has already promised that He will. The question is whether we will be prepared when He does.
“Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” — Matthew 24:44 (KJV)
The servant may change, but the God who calls and anoints His servants remains the same. We must continue carrying the bloodstained banner of Jesus Christ, not for our glory, but for His.