Mark 13

Mark 13

As I read this chapter, my mind focuses on the events leading up to Christ’s return . . . wars and rumors of wars, our allegiance and testimony being “on trial,” etc. These events have been part of life for hundreds of years and make me ask, have we become complacent to the world events around us? Have we accepted them as just part of our daily living? I have, in the past. Jesus tells us not to panic, don’t worry, stay alert, and keep watch . . . to watch for his return.

A footnote in my bible says that this chapter was not written to promote discussions on prophetic timetables but to stimulate right living for God in a world where He is largely ignored. We are told HOW to live while we wait for Christ’s return. Some that I see are . . .

1. We are not to be misled (vs. 5-6)
2. We are not to be afraid to tell people about Jesus, no matter what they say or do to us because we do share the gospel. We are not to worry about what to speak in our defense but say what God tells us to say. (vs. 9-11)
3. We are to stand firm even when hated for our allegiance to Jesus (vs. 13)
4. We are to stay alert and keep watch and be prepared. (vs. 33-37)

Part of verse 11 really caught my attention, “Just say what God tells you to. Then it is not you who will be speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” Apart from this being applied to the end times, I need this in my everyday living! How many misunderstandings and unintentional hurts could I have avoided, and can I avoid, if I just say what God tells me to say . . . to allow the Holy Spirit to speak through me . . . to set a watch over my mouth! If I have ever offended or hurt any of you dear ladies in the past, please forgive me and know that it was never intentional.

Are you challenged by this chapter to be alert, to keep watch, to be prepared?