August 5
The Comfort of the
Second Coming
1 Thessalonians 5:4-6
But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness 1 . So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.
Daily Steps
The uncertainty of Christ's return (Day 215) can cause panic for those unprepared, but for the new believer who is watching, it is a source of peace and assurance. This passage provides the final distinction: true believers are children of the light and therefore should not be caught by surprise.
The peace in this distinction is found in spiritual clarity:
The Identity of the Believer: The text establishes a clear identity: You are all children of the light and children of the day. This identity means you live in truth and moral clarity (The Light of the World, Day 166), unlike those who dwell in the spiritual darkness (Day 177).
The Absence of Surprise: Because of this identity, the return of Christ—"this day"—should not surprise you like a thief. While the timing is unknown, the fact of His coming and the posture of readiness (Day 216) are known. This certainty removes the anxiety of spiritual unpreparedness.
The Command to Be Sober: The practical command is: let us be awake and sober. To be awake is to be spiritually vigilant and alert (Be alert!, Day 215). To be sober is to be self-controlled, rational, and clear-headed (Self-Control, Day 183), ensuring your waiting is marked by sincere love and clear purpose (Day 217).
Your peace in the future is secured by spiritual clarity. Embrace your identity as a child of the light, living awake and sober, knowing that the day of the Lord will bring comfort, not surprise.
Reflective Question
If you truly are a child of the light, what area of your life is currently marked by darkness or spiritual sluggishness ("asleep")? What specific decision to be more awake and sober can you make today to secure your peace?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my temptation to fall back into spiritual slumber. I thank You for calling me to be a child of the light.
I pray for the vigilance to be awake and sober, so that the day of Christ's return does not surprise me like a thief. Secure my peace today in the certainty of my identity and the joy of being found ready for Your glorious coming. Amen.
