Introductory Thoughts
It has been said that an individual is not truly ready to live for the Lord until he is willing and ready to die for Him. There are many reasons why one might not be ready to die for the faith (i.e., sin, regret, desire to remain with loved ones, fear, etc.). As a believer, one should not fear death. He or she should also realize that “to be absent from the body” is “to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). Death (or the Rapture) is the only means by which the believer enters the truest form of life. Paul understood this truth and was willing to die if it were the will of God. As it turned out, it was not Paul’s time to die. Yet, when that time came, Paul said, “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand” (2 Timothy 4:6).
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): God wants us to concentrate on living for Him (Romans 12:1). But we all have an appointment with death (Hebrews 9:27) and it could come anytime (1 Samuel 20:3b). We should be ready and not be afraid (Psalm 23:4; Proverbs 14:32b; Romans 8:38-39).
-
(For everyone): Are you ready to die should your time come? If not, why? Have you trusted Christ as your Saviour? Is there something you need to do for the Lord? Is there some unconfessed sin in your life that you need to take to the Lord?
-
Why is it so important to live in such a way as to always be ready to die? How would this help you live a holier life?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to help you be prepared to die.
- Ask the Lord to help you with any sin or regrets you may have.
Song
TRUST AND OBEY
