“Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.” — Titus 2:13 (KJV)
Introduction: A New Year with Eternal Questions
As we begin a new year, the Church once again stands watchful and expectant. We cannot help but ask: Will this be the year? Will this be the moment when Christ calls His Church home? Scripture assures us that while no man knows the day or the hour, we are not left without understanding. The signs given by our Lord tell us clearly that the time is near (Matthew 24:33). The stage is being set, and it is now very near complete, for the beginning of the Tribulation period foretold by the prophets.
The Nearness of the Rapture
The Bible teaches that the Church is not appointed to wrath (1 Thessalonians 5:9). Before God pours out judgment upon a rebellious world, Christ will gather His bride to Himself (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17).
The global conditions we now witness—political unrest, moral decay, spiritual confusion, and growing hostility toward truth—align precisely with what Scripture describes as the last days (2 Timothy 3:1–5). These are not random events. They are signals. The return of Christ for His Church is not a distant hope; it is an imminent one.
The World Being Prepared for the Tribulation
Prophecy tells us that a time of unprecedented trouble is coming upon the earth (Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:21). The systems of control, deception, and global alignment described in Revelation are no longer difficult to imagine. They are forming openly before our eyes.
This should not produce fear in the believer, but clarity. God is faithful to His Word. What He has spoken will come to pass (Isaiah 46:10).
The Moving of the Spirit and the Prophecy of Joel
During the past year, reports have emerged of the Spirit of God moving powerfully in many nations. Hearts are being stirred. Repentance is being preached. Hunger for truth is rising in unexpected places.
Could this be the unfolding of Joel’s prophecy?
“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh.” — Joel 2:28 (KJV)
Peter quoted this passage on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:16–18), yet prophecy often has both an immediate and a greater fulfillment. As darkness increases, God is calling people to Himself before the door closes. Mercy always precedes judgment.
Our Call to Steadfastness
As we grow closer to that day, we must remain steadfast in God’s Word. Scripture is not merely instruction; it is protection.
“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” — Psalm 119:11 (KJV)
God’s Word is where our power lies. It is where our safety lies. A Church grounded in Scripture will not be deceived, even as deception increases (Ephesians 6:10–17).
The Urgency of Prayer
Prayer is not optional in these days—it is necessary. We are commanded to pray for our loved ones, many of whom remain outside of Christ (Romans 10:1). We are to pray for our world, which groans under the weight of sin (Romans 8:22).
Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s purposes and keeps us sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Watchfulness and the Blessed Hope
Scripture repeatedly calls the believer to vigilance.
“Watch ye therefore, and pray always.” — Luke 21:36 (KJV)
We must be sober, watchful, and focused—not distracted by the world, nor discouraged by its decline. Our eyes are fixed on our Blessed Hope, Jesus Christ. He is coming again, just as He promised (John 14:1–3).
Conclusion: Entering the New Year with Expectation
As we step into this new year, we do so with confidence, not uncertainty. The same God who has guided His people through every generation remains in control today.
Let us live ready. Let us remain faithful. Let us stand firm in truth, devoted to prayer, and anchored in hope. Whether this is the year of His appearing or simply another year closer, our calling remains the same:
“Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” — Revelation 22:20 (KJV)