Are You Ready To Meet Jesus?

As the sun rises and sets each day, we are reminded of the fleeting nature of life. Time continues to march on, unrelenting and ever-moving. For many, the thought of meeting Jesus might feel distant. However, in the scope of eternity, we must ask ourselves: are we truly ready to meet our Savior?

## UNDERSTANDING THE NATURE OF LIFE

Life is a precious gift, yet it is often taken for granted. The Bible tells us in **James 4:14**: “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” This scripture serves as a stark reminder that our existence is temporary. Every moment spent in trivial pursuits is a moment taken away from seeking our Creator. 

As we traverse through our busy lives, we are often consumed by the hustle and bustle. Work, school, family obligations, and social commitments take priority. Yet, in the grand tapestry of life, where do our spiritual priorities lie? Are we nurturing our relationship with Christ, or are we letting the distractions of the world drown out the call of God? 

## THE CALL TO PREPARE

In **Matthew 24:44**, Jesus warns, “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” The call to be ready is not just an invitation, but a command. Jesus urges us to prepare our hearts and minds for His return, which can happen at any moment. The story of the ten virgins in **Matthew 25:1-13** illustrates this necessity well. 

Five virgins were wise and prepared, while the other five neglected to bring extra oil for their lamps. When the call came at midnight, the unprepared virgins found themselves locked out of the wedding feast. The message is clear: preparedness is paramount.

### TOMORROW IS NOT PROMISED

Each day, we unconsciously assume that there will always be a tomorrow. However, the Bible teaches us that this is not guaranteed. **Proverbs 27:1** states: “Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” Life is filled with uncertainty, and those who do not prepare for what lies ahead may find themselves facing the consequences.

The unpredictability of life means that we must live each moment with intention. Are we fostering our relationship with Jesus? Are we grounded in His word? 

## THE REALITY OF HELL

Hell is a topic that many tend to shy away from, but it is an undeniable reality in Scripture. **Matthew 25:46** declares, “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.” Hell is not merely a metaphor; it is a place of separation from God, designed for those who reject His gift of salvation.

In **Luke 16:23**, we find the story of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man, after death, found himself in torment, begging for relief. This horrifying reality should compel us to examine our own lives and the lives of those around us. Are we actively sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with those in our circles? 

### THE LOVE OF GOD AND THE GIFT OF SALVATION

Understanding the reality of hell is essential, but it should not overshadow the incredible gift of salvation that God offers to us through Jesus Christ. In **John 3:16**, we find the quintessential verse on salvation: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” God’s love is powerful and all-encompassing; He desires for no one to perish.

Jesus came to seek and to save the lost. In **Luke 19:10**, He declared, “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” If you are lost and searching for purpose and direction in your life, I urge you to turn to Him. 

## THE TIME FOR DECISION IS NOW

The critical question remains: Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior? In **Romans 10:9-10**, Paul writes, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

The path to salvation is clear and simple, yet it requires a heart ripe for repentance. It’s about acknowledging our sin and turning away from it while fully embracing God’s grace.

### HOW TO PREPARE FOR HIS RETURN

1. **Cultivate A Relationship With God**: Spend time in prayer and in the Word. **Hebrews 4:12** affirms that “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword.” Let His Word transform your heart.

2. **Fellowship With Other Believers**: Join a community of faith, where you can grow spiritually and share in each other’s burdens. **Hebrews 10:25** encourages us, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

3. **Share The Gospel**: As we approach Christ’s return, let’s be diligent about sharing the Good News. In **Mark 16:15**, Jesus commands us to “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”

4. **Live A Life Of Holiness**: Strive to live according to His principles. In **1 Peter 1:16**, it is written: “Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” 

## CONCLUSION: ARE YOU READY TO MEET JESUS?

In light of what we have discussed, it is vital that we each take a moment to reflect on our lives. Are we living in anticipation of Christ’s return? Are we aware of the consequences of neglecting this call? We cannot afford to delay the important decisions of life. As **Romans 13:11** points out, “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.”

If you’ve come to realize that you are not ready to meet Jesus, I invite you to say this prayer of salvation:

### PRAYER OF SALVATION

"Dear Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner and in need of Your grace. I believe that You died for my sins and that You rose again on the third day. I confess with my mouth that You are my Lord and Savior. Please forgive me for my sins and help me to live for You from this day forward. Thank You for the gift of salvation and for the new life You have given me. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen."

May you find peace and assurance in your relationship with Jesus Christ, and may you be ever-ready for His glorious return. Remember, tomorrow is not promised, and hell is very real—choose to follow Jesus today!