The End Is Near, 1 Pt 4:7-8

Text
“The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4: 7 – 8, NLT).

Insight
It sounds like the headline story on the evening news: "The end of the world is coming soon." Peter wrote these words some 2000 years ago. Was he confused or was he misled? What did he mean and how should we respond?
Nobody knows the exact time, date and detailed specifics of the end of the world…not even Peter. He's not suggesting he does know, but rather calling believers to live expectantly because the return of Jesus Christ is imminent. Do you live expectantly, earnestly and disciplined while looking for His return? Guard casual living, the type that will regrettably be surprised when the Master returns. What will He find you doing?
How should we live in the end-times? We should live focused! Peter writes that the expectant believer should "be earnest and disciplined in your prayer" (4:7). Secondly, he should be intentional about showing "deep love" for each other (4:8). He should focus on sharing what he has with those in need and serving others with the gifts and skills God has given him. Bottom Line: Be faithful to administer God's grace in its various forms. "Then everything you do will bring glory to God" (4:11) whether He returns today, next week or in the next millennium.
Are you living with the end in mind? Get disciplined in your prayer life. Go deeper in your love for God and others. Share, don't horde, what you have, and serve others, not just yourself. Living expectantly is bringing glory to God in everything you do.

Prayer
Father, whether Christ’s return is today, next week or next millennium, I choose to bring You glory every day. Help me to live expectantly and with discipline… loving others. In Jesus name, AMEN.