DO YOU WANT TO BE READY?

Peter was surely a godly man, and through him the Holy Spirit shows us exactly what God says about how to face these last days. Peter is telling us very clearly, “Here is your most important preparation: Get your heart ready. If this matter isn’t dealt with, all other preparations are in vain. Stay on your knees. And above all else, practice unceasing mercy and love toward your brothers and sisters. Forgive and cover their sins.”

COVER THE SINS OF OTHERS

We are commanded to “cover” those sins committed against us — meaning, we are not to expose the sins of others.

“Charity shall cover the multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8).

Who has hurt or wounded you? Who has spread gossip about you? According to Jesus, if you do not forgive and cover that sin, you are like the man who was forgiven a great debt but later choked a man who owed him a few dollars.

“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God” (4:10).

FILLED WITH JOY DURING TURMOIL

The truth is, Peter’s message here has everything to do with the future of the Church of Jesus Christ. You see, God is preparing His Church for a latter-day outpouring of His Spirit. According to the prophets, the Holy Spirit will come in a great wave upon the earth, filling God’s people with joy when the world is in upheaval. This won’t happen, however, where people hold grudges and wounds are left unresolved.

THE QUESTION: Do you want to be ready for what’s coming? Do you want to be fully prepared when all things are being shaken?

THE ANSWER: Then make sure you have nothing in your heart that hinders the flow of God’s Spirit.

Something wonderful is just ahead so make sure you are not left out of it!