BE READY, FOR THE LORD WILL COME UNEXPECTEDLY July 22,2026 Scripture Reading: 2 Peter 3:10 (NKJV) "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up." Matthew 24:36-44; Mark 13:32-37; 1 Thessalonians 5:2-6; Matthew 25:1-13. One of the greatest truths every believer must never forget is that the Day of the Lord is certain, but its timing is unknown. The Apostle Peter describes it as coming "like a thief in the night." A thief does not announce his arrival or send a schedule ahead of time. He comes unexpectedly. In the same way, the return of Christ will catch many by surprise. Sadly, throughout history, many individuals have claimed to know the exact date and time of Christ's return. Some have even persuaded people to sell their possessions and abandon their daily responsibilities in anticipation of a predicted day that never came. Such predictions contradict the clear teaching of Scripture. Jesus Himself declared, "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only" (Matthew 24:36). While He walked on earth in human form, He made it clear that the timing of His return rested in the Father's authority (Mark 13:32). God has never called His people to calculate dates but to cultivate readiness. The parable of the ten virgins teaches this important lesson (Matthew 25:1-13). The five wise virgins did not know when the bridegroom would arrive, yet they remained prepared with sufficient oil in their lamps. Their readiness—not their knowledge of the time—made the difference. Instead of becoming distracted by human predictions, scientific calculations, or sensational claims, believers are called to live holy lives, remain faithful in prayer, and diligently preach the gospel. On the Day of the Lord, nothing in this world will matter except our relationship with Christ and our faithfulness to His calling. Therefore, be steadfast and immovable in the work of the Lord. Continue fulfilling the ministry of evangelism, living in holiness, and watching with expectation. Do not be deceived by those who claim to know the day or hour. Fix your eyes on Christ and live every day as though He could return at any moment. Prayer Heavenly Father, help me to live every day in readiness for the return of Christ. Keep me faithful, steadfast, and watchful. Deliver me from deception and help me to spend my life serving You and proclaiming the gospel until You come. In Jesus' name, Amen. Key Thought: Those who are truly prepared for Christ's return do not spend their time predicting His coming—they spend their lives faithfully serving Him. Share your thoughts, comments, or contributions with us at: apostolicchargeministry[gmail].com Visit: www.apostolicchargeministry.wordpress.com www.apostolicchargeministry.blogspot.com