BE PREPARED TO MEET GOD

TITLE: BE PREPARED TO MEET GOD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Amos 4:12
Supporting Texts: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Matthew 24:44, Revelation 22:12

INTRODUCTION:
The message of preparation is a call to vigilance and readiness to meet the Lord. In Amos 4:12, God’s warning to Israel highlights His expectation that His people must be prepared to meet Him. This message is as relevant to us today as it was then. With the promise of Christ’s return and the reality of life’s uncertainties, every believer must live in a constant state of spiritual readiness. Are we truly prepared to meet God?

1. UNDERSTANDING THE CALL TO PREPARE

a) The Urgency of Readiness
Every believer is called to readiness because we do not know the exact day or hour of Christ’s return (Matthew 24:36). This urgency should drive our daily walk and devotion.

b) God’s Expectations for His People
God desires that His people live holy, blameless lives, pursuing righteousness and fleeing from sin (1 Peter 1:16).

c) The Consequences of Unpreparedness
The Bible warns of the consequences of being spiritually unprepared, as seen in the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13).

d) Examining Our Spiritual State
Self-reflection and examination are essential to gauge our standing before God (2 Corinthians 13:5).

Biblical Example: Noah’s preparedness allowed him to escape God’s judgment during the flood (Genesis 6:9-22).

2. THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES

a) Recognising the Signs of Christ’s Return
Jesus provided signs of His return, including wars, earthquakes, and moral decay (Matthew 24:6-12).

b) Staying Alert to Spiritual Deception
Many false teachers and prophets are rising, so discernment is vital (1 Timothy 4:1).

c) Increase in Wickedness and Lukewarm Faith
The love of many will grow cold, but we are called to endure to the end (Matthew 24:12-13).

d) Commitment to God’s Word and Prayer
Scripture and prayer anchor us and keep our faith vibrant in challenging times (Psalm 119:105).

Biblical Example: Lot’s family was warned to flee Sodom before God’s judgment fell upon it (Genesis 19:12-17).

3. THE LIFESTYLE OF A PREPARED BELIEVER

a) Walking in Holiness and Integrity
Holiness and integrity are the hallmarks of a believer prepared to meet God (1 Peter 1:15-16).

b) Practising Forgiveness and Love
Jesus calls us to forgive and love others, reflecting His character (Matthew 6:14-15).

c) Cultivating a Heart of Service and Compassion
Being prepared means being faithful in serving others, just as Jesus did (Matthew 25:40).

d) Maintaining Spiritual Discipline
Prayer, fasting, and worship are essential spiritual disciplines that strengthen our relationship with God (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Biblical Example: Daniel’s life of discipline and integrity prepared him for God’s favour in a foreign land (Daniel 6:10-11).

4. KEEPING WATCH AND STAYING FOCUSED

a) Avoiding Distractions of the World
Our eyes should be fixed on Jesus, not on worldly distractions (Hebrews 12:2).

b) Being Mindful of Our Spiritual Armour
Wearing the full armour of God keeps us prepared and protected (Ephesians 6:11-18).

c) Focusing on Eternal Rewards
We must prioritize heavenly treasures over earthly possessions (Matthew 6:19-20).

d) Trusting God’s Timing and Sovereignty
Understanding that God’s timing is perfect helps us remain patient and watchful (Habakkuk 2:3).

Biblical Example: The watchful servants in Luke 12:35-40 were ready to welcome their master’s return.

5. THE PROMISE OF ETERNAL REWARD FOR THE PREPARED

a) Assurance of a Place in God’s Kingdom
Jesus promised that He has prepared a place for those who are His (John 14:2-3).

b) The Reward of Eternal Life
Eternal life is promised to all who place their faith in Jesus (John 3:16).

c) Being Welcomed by God as Good and Faithful Servants
Those who are prepared will hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23).

d) Sharing in Christ’s Glory
Believers who are prepared will share in the glory and splendour of Christ (Colossians 3:4).

Biblical Example: Paul speaks of the crown of righteousness awaiting those who love His appearing (2 Timothy 4:8).

CONCLUSION:
Preparation to meet God is the foundation of Christian living. The return of Christ is imminent, and it is essential that we keep our lamps burning, remain faithful, and stay vigilant in prayer and holiness. God’s call to be prepared is an act of love, warning us to walk with Him daily and live lives that reflect His righteousness.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me live a life of holiness and readiness for Your return.

2. Father, reveal any area of my life that needs change to align with Your will.

3. Lord, strengthen me to resist temptations and distractions of the world.

4. Father, fill me with discernment to recognize spiritual deception.

5. Help me to forgive and love others as Christ has loved me.

6. Grant me the grace to walk in integrity and righteousness.

7. Lord, help me keep my focus on eternal things, not on earthly distractions.

8. Fill me with a heart of compassion and service towards others.

9. Lord, equip me with Your full armour to stand firm against the enemy.

10. Father, may I be found ready and faithful when You return.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will live in readiness, prepared for the coming of the Lord.

2. The Lord will empower you to walk in holiness and righteousness.

3. No distraction will hinder your journey of faith.

4. You shall walk in discernment, and no deception will mislead you.

5. Your life will reflect God’s love and compassion to all.

6. Every plan of the enemy to derail your focus is destroyed.

7. You will remain strong in the Lord and the power of His might.

8. The Lord will use you to be a light and a testimony in this world.

9. God’s grace will sustain you to the end, keeping you unspotted from the world.

10. When Christ returns, you will be found prepared and counted worthy to be with Him forever.