You yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. – 1 Thessalonians 5:2
There is a similarity between a thief and a pregnant woman. The thief will not announce his time of arrival – he may come suddenly and definitely unexpectedly. The labor pains of a pregnant woman will also come suddenly. However, the pain is actually expected, usually with great anticipation.
Today’s verse speaks of “the day of the Lord.” It is a day that is unknown as far as time and date. Those who do not believe in Christ will find the day of judgment brings destruction upon them suddenly. It will be unexpected, unavoidable, and inescapable (1 Thessalonians 5:3). Spiritually, the unbeliever is in darkness and so will not be ready for this momentous day.
The believer is one of God’s people whom He has called “out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). You are to be alert and vigilant in anticipation of His coming again. The Reverend John Stott wrote: “Let’s not sleep or even yawn our way through life, or live in our pajamas. Let’s stay awake and alert. For then we shall be ready when Christ comes and we will not be taken by surprise.”
As believers, you look forward to the celebration of Christmas – Christ’s coming to Earth to live among His people. Jesus is going to return and, those who believe in Him as Messiah, joyfully anticipate that great and glorious day. Pray now that those in this nation who live in darkness would come to know Jesus as Savior. Then ask the Lord to strengthen your dedication to living a life pleasing to Him so you will be found faithful when the Savior comes back.
Today’s Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:2
2 For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Mark 13:32-37
32 “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come. 34 It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his servants in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to stay awake. 35 Therefore stay awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morning— 36 lest he come suddenly and find you asleep. 37 And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake.”
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
