Week One:  Be ALERT

The end of all things is near. You must be self-controlled and alert, to be able to pray (1 Peter 4:7)

Everywhere you look today there’s trouble. Trouble in our schools.  Trouble in our families. Trouble in Syria.  Some even think we’re in the end times.  A “doomsday preppers” website  instructs you how to get a free app to design a multi-level dream bunker, complete with all you need for a post apocalyptic  bliss.  Seriously?

But according to Scripture, no one knows the “day or the hour.”  And instead of warning us to run for safety, build a bunker, or stockpile our goods, the Bible reminds us that when things look darkest, we are to “be self controlled and alert so we can pray.”  We are also encouraged to love each other, show hospitality and serve others (vv. 8-10).   In other words, we’re to live each and every day in obedience to God’s word, alert to His voice, whether Jesus returns tomorrow or in a hundred  years.  Continue reading