(Matthew 24 ; Luke 12 ; 1 Thessalonians 5 ; 2 Peter 3
; Jude)
Jude directed the brethren to "keep themselves in the love of God." Now to do this he suggested three specific things they were to do. This is what he said:
"But you, beloved, BUILDING yourselves up on your most holy faith, PRAYING in the Holy Spirit, KEEEEEP yourselves in the [unhindered flow] of God's love, LOOKING for the mercy of our Lord Jesus unto eternal life." Jude 20-21 (emphasis added by me).
KEEEEEP yourselves in the flow of God's love. How? By:
1. BUILDING upon the solid foundation of the faith that's been delivered once for all to the brethren. Simply, growing and strengthening themselves in the grace and knowledge of Jesus, as both Paul and Peter preached, Acts 20:32 says, "I entrust you to God and the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified." (Colossians 3:16 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17 ; Psalm 1 ; Proverbs 3:5-6 ; Joshua 1:8-9 ; 2 Peter 3:18) Isaiah 33:6 teaches us that the steadfast strength and rich wealth of our salvation will always hinge on the gates of wisdom and knowledge that open our minds and hearts to the unfathomable depths of His goodness
2. PRAYING with the love and leadership of the Spirit of God who gives us power, purpose and passion to see, serve and submit to the will and ways of God. For it is God who works in us to will and to do according to His good pleasure... it will always be the zeal of the Lord of host that orders and establishes His kingdom. (Isaiah 9:6-7 & Philippians 2:12-13)
3. LOOKING eagerly, with great hope, for the daily provision and outpouring of His lovingkindness and a continual harvest of mercy, as we sow the seeds of righteousness and live in the light of His promised return. (Titus 2:11-14 ; Lamentations 3:22-24 ; Hosea 10:12-13 ; Psalm 143:7-8 ; Psalm 147:11)
Take courage... these are by no means exhaustive. But I do pray they will help point you in the right direction or affirm what you're already doing to keep yourself in the unhindered flow of the love of God.
Prepared for His Coming [WATCHING]
Prepared for His Calling [WORKING]
Prepared for His Crowning [WAITING]
Check out Pastor Nick’s corresponding audio message, “Prepared (Part 2)” posted on February 22, 2019.
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