December 26
The Final Charge:
Be Ready!
1 Peter 4:7
The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.
Daily Steps
Having accepted the Guarantee of the Spirit (Day 361) and understood the necessity of consecrated living (Day 358), the believer must live every day with a keen sense of urgency. This verse delivers a Final Charge, reminding us of the imminent nature of The Return of Christ (Day 306) and directing our resulting actions: maintaining spiritual vigilance and prioritizing prayer (Day 355).
The peace in this principle is found in watchful anticipation:
The Sense of Urgency: The declaration, The end of all things is near, is the constant reality of the New Covenant. While we do not know the day or hour, we live in the "last days" (Hebrews 1:2). This eternal perspective (Day 343) should govern all our choices.
The Command for Vigilance: Because the end is near, we are commanded to be alert and of sober mind. Alertness involves spiritual watchfulness, protecting against deception (Day 347) and the world's distractions. Sober mind requires inner discipline (Day 335) and clear, focused thinking, avoiding worldly foolishness (Day 290).
The Purpose of Preparedness: The ultimate goal of being alert is so that you may pray. Our prayer and petition (Day 355) must be prioritized over all other concerns. Vigilance and clarity of mind are necessary to maintain the vital connection (Day 352) with God, which fuels steadfastness (Day 339).
Your peace is secured by watchful anticipation. Embrace The Final Charge today by examining how you spend your time. Are your actions reflecting the reality that the end of all things is near? Commit to turning distractions into moments of focused, clear-minded prayer.
Reflective Question
If you truly believed Christ was returning this week, what daily activity would you immediately stop, and what spiritual practice (like prayer or service) would you prioritize?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to live carelessly and forget the urgency of Your coming. I thank You for the warning that the end of all things is near. I pray for the grace to be alert and of sober mind in every decision I make today. Secure my peace in this watchful anticipation, and let my vigilance always lead me to Your throne of grace so that I may pray. Amen.
