“And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.” — Romans 13:11 (KJV)
A New Year in the Light of His Soon Return
Every new year brings resolutions, plans, and renewed determination. But for the Christian, the turning of the calendar is far more than a cultural moment—it is a spiritual reminder. Time is not endless. History is not random. And the signs of Christ’s return stand before us with increasing clarity.
As we stand at the threshold of another year, the Holy Spirit calls the Church not merely to “improve,” but to draw closer to Christ with urgency, devotion, and unwavering faith. The prophetic pulse of Scripture beats louder than ever, and the Bride must make herself ready.
Awake to the Hour
Paul’s words in Romans 13 ring with prophetic clarity: “now it is high time to awake out of sleep.” Spiritual slumber is the great danger of peaceful seasons, and complacency is the enemy of readiness. Christ warned repeatedly against the lethargy that overtook the five foolish virgins, saying in Matthew 25:13, “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”
To draw closer to Christ is to awaken spiritually:
- Awaken to the reality of His Lordship.
- Awaken to the lateness of the hour.
- Awaken to the mission He has entrusted to every believer.
We do not watch in fear—we watch in readiness.
Return to the First Love
Jesus’ rebuke to the church of Ephesus echoes prophetically today: “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.” (Revelation 2:4). Many Christians maintain activity, ministry, and outward devotion—but the fire of intimacy with Christ flickers low.
To draw closer to Christ in this new year is to restore:
- Daily fellowship with Him through prayer.
- Deep hunger for the Word of God.
- Joyful obedience motivated by love, not duty.
Christ does not merely call us to service—He calls us to Himself.
Walk in Holiness While the World Darkens
Scripture tells us that lawlessness, deception, and moral collapse will escalate as the end draws near (2 Timothy 3:1–5; Matthew 24:12). The answer is not fear, nor retreat, but holiness. Peter writes with divine urgency, “What manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness” (2 Peter 3:11).
To draw closer to Christ is to separate from anything that dims our spiritual vision:
- Sin that weakens fellowship
- Distractions that steal worship
- Voices that distort truth
Holiness is not legalism; it is alignment with the heart of Christ.
Strengthen Your Faith for the Days Ahead
Jesus warned that in the last days, “men’s hearts [will be] failing them for fear” (Luke 21:26). But those who walk closely with Christ will not fear the shaking of the world, because they stand upon the Rock. A believer rooted in Christ is stable, unmovable, and unshaken.
This year is not a call for anxiety—it is a call for deeper faith:
- Faith that clings to Christ’s promises
- Faith that resists deception
- Faith that looks for His appearing with joy
Paul spoke of “a crown of righteousness” reserved for those who “love His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8).
Live with Eternal Purpose
Drawing close to Christ transforms how we use our time, our gifts, and our days. The urgency of His return calls us to live with eternal purpose, not temporal pursuits. Jesus said, “Occupy till I come” (Luke 19:13). This means:
- Serve faithfully
- Love deeply
- Witness boldly
- Live intentionally
We do not know the day or hour, but we know the season. And we know our assignment.
Conclusion: This Year, Let Christ Be the Center
As we step into a new year, the question is not how this year will treat us—but how we will walk with Christ through it. His return is approaching. His Word stands sure. His Spirit is calling His people to abide, to watch, and to draw near.
Let this year be marked not by resolutions but by relationship.
Not by plans but by prayer.
Not by uncertainty but by unshakeable hope in the soon return of our Lord.
Draw close to Christ—
for our salvation is nearer now than ever before.