Put On The Armor Of Light

Sunday, May 3

Revelation 13:11-12 (NKJV)

“Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon.And he exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence, and causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.”

Devotion

Time is a precious commodity. Most of us have heard the many references about how time flies… you may delay, but time will not… seize the moment… strike while the iron is hot… redeem the time… make the most of the day… time waits for no man.

In today’s Scripture, Paul reminds us that “our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.” While we are not to live in fear, we are wise to pay attention to the sense of urgency in waking up from our indifference. We are to be spiritually alert.

Paul summarized in chapter 12 what Christian behavior should be and further proceeded to talk about how “love fulfills the law” in chapter 13. It was a reminder of how to live in relationship with God and others.

Verses 11 and 12 of Romans chapter 13 are an exhortation to take seriously the time at hand, as none of us know how much “time” we are given in a day, in a life, or how much time remains before the Lord returns. Paul also says in 2 Corinthians 6:2, “I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” He quotes an Old Testament scripture from Isaiah 49:8 to remind us that God is patient, because every hour brings the unexpected. It is a call not to put off turning to the Lord and accepting His grace.

Paul describes what it means to live as a Christian on this side of eternity. He describes someone whose priority is the good of others and one who trusts God to provide all that is needed. It is our opportunity to let our light shine to those around us.

Let’s heed his words, because “time is of the essence.”

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Help me to redeem the time, for the days are evil. Prepare me by Your Holy Spirit so I can be used by You. Awaken me morning by morning to hear so that I may speak a word in season to him who is weary. Here I am, Lord, use me. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

Spending quality time in fellowship with the Lord in prayer and by reading His Word will help you fill up your well, like a cup that runs over, so others can drink of the Living Water.

Resources

• Join us this morning at 9:00am and 11:00am (EDT) as we continue the powerful series “The Return of Jesus” with Pastor Jentezen Franklin. Come worship with us in person at a Free Chapel campus near you, or join online right here on the app, YouTube, Facebook, or live.freechapel.org.

• Don’t let the fire burn out, keep it alive. Stay connected, stay engaged, and be part of what God is doing through Free Chapel. Join the events, step into outreach, and get involved. Events Calendar.