Greetings, Friends! Susie Larson here...

And to those visiting, I say welcome! I post every Wednesday and my sole purpose is to nourish your soul along the way. Each month I give away a $10.00 Starbucks giftcard to someone who posts on my blog. So share an insight, bless lots of folks, and just maybe you'll win a jolt of java for you and a friend. 

I had a powerful conversation with author/speaker Mike Guzzardo last week. We talked about what it means to live 'All In' for Jesus. If you need a spiritual shot in the arm, be sure to catch the podcast from last week's show. I'm pretty sure you'll love that interview!

Now on to my topic...

I've been thinking a lot lately about the end times and about Jesus' return. No matter where you stand on end times theology (pre-trib, mid-trib, or post trib), most agree, Jesus is coming soon! 

Scripture says that just as in the days of Noah, people in the latter days will be caught up in daily life, eating, drinking, and partying - with no thought of the coming flood - and that is how it will be when the Son of Man returns (See Matthew 24:37-39). 

First Peter, verses thirteen and fourteen say this: So think clearly and exercise self-control. Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. So you must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any better then.

Think clearly: Remember what's important. Consider that if you are in Christ, you are not your own; you've been bought with a price. You have a divine call on your life! Refuse to get caught up in petty insecurities and shallow self-awareness. You are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus! You possess all in Him. You lack no good thing. Walk in a manner worthy of your calling. Live up to your high privilege in Christ Jesus. Put your hand only to the things He calls you to. May you understand the times and know what to do.

Exercise self control: Don't throw your time away like it doesn't matter because all of your life matters! Don't give in to the indulgences common to man; practice restraint and moderation so you can be clear thinking, alert, and ready for action. Enjoy an occasaional treat here and there, but don't let over indulgence mark your life. Consider this not as a legalistic order but a challenge to be well trained and alert!

Look forward: For the Christ-follower, this life on earth is as bad as it gets! We have everything to look forward to. For the one who rejects Christ, this life is as good as it gets. Live with expectancy! Trust that God's promises are true. Expect Him to come through for you and to keep His word. In the coming days, look for answers to your persistent prayers. Scripture says that hope does not disappoint. As Mike Guzzardo said (in the interview I referred to above), "It's literally impossible for Christ to fail me." Live with the expectancy that God is actively involved in your life. He loves you, He is for you, and He is with you. 

Even amidst the hustle-bustle of this holiday season, live as one who is spoken for. We celebrate Jesus, the long-expected Savior. He came as a humble babe in the manger. Soon He'll return as King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

May we live with our eyes open, our chin lifted, and our hearts set fully on Him. When He returns, will He find faith on the earth? 

May He find faith in us.

~Until next week.