The Bible makes it clear that Jesus will return, though no one knows the exact day or hour (Matthew 24:36). As believers, we are called not just to wait passively but to live in active preparation. Jesus' return will be sudden, and only those who are ready will be taken with Him. So how do we prepare? Here are seven biblical and practical ways to live in readiness for His glorious return.
1. Live a Life of Holiness
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.” – 1 Peter 1:15 (NIV)
Holiness means being set apart for God. In a world that normalizes sin, we are called to reflect God's purity and character. Preparing for Jesus’ return starts with a commitment to walk in righteousness and flee from sin. This doesn’t mean perfection, but daily surrender and obedience.
Practical Step:
Spend time in God’s Word and allow the Holy Spirit to convict and cleanse areas in your life that don’t please God.
2. Stay Spiritually Awake
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” – Matthew 24:42 (NIV)
Spiritual sleep can creep in when we become too busy or distracted. Jesus warns us to stay alert, watchful, and aware of the signs of the times. Being spiritually awake means remaining prayerful, sensitive to the Holy Spirit, and not allowing ourselves to drift.
Practical Step:
Examine your spiritual life regularly. Are you growing or drifting? Stay committed to personal devotion and fellowship.
3. Be Filled with the Holy Spirit
“The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet.” – Matthew 25:10 (NIV)
In the parable of the ten virgins, only the ones with oil in their lamps were ready when the bridegroom arrived. The oil represents the Holy Spirit. We cannot be ready for Jesus without being filled with His Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who empowers us to live rightly and stay alert.
Practical Step:
Ask God daily to fill you with His Spirit. Worship, pray, and listen for His guidance in your daily life.
4. Share the Gospel
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world… and then the end will come.” – Matthew 24:14 (NIV)
Jesus’ return is connected to the preaching of the gospel. We are His ambassadors and have been entrusted with the message of salvation. Sharing the gospel isn’t just for pastors—every believer is called to be a witness.
Practical Step:
Pray for open doors to share your faith. Start with your family, friends, or coworkers. Support missions through prayer and giving.
5. Persevere in Trials
“He who stands firm to the end will be saved.” – Matthew 24:13 (NIV)
End-time believers will face increasing challenges, but we are called to remain steadfast. Trials are not signs of God’s absence but opportunities to grow in faith and character. Endurance is essential in preparation for Jesus’ return.
Practical Step:
Strengthen your faith through regular study of Scripture. When facing trials, remember that God is with you and will sustain you.
6. Let Go of Worldly Attachments
“Do not love the world or anything in the world.” – 1 John 2:15 (NIV)
Being too attached to worldly pleasures can dull our spiritual senses. We must learn to hold the things of this world loosely and focus on eternal priorities. The return of Jesus should inspire a heart that longs more for heaven than for earthly gain.
Practical Step:
Fast from worldly distractions like excessive entertainment or materialism. Refocus your heart on eternal values.
7. Stay in Fellowship
“Let us not give up meeting together… but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:25 (NIV)
Isolation weakens faith, but fellowship builds and strengthens it. Gathering with other believers helps us stay encouraged, accountable, and spiritually sharp as we await Christ’s return.
Practical Step:
Be active in your local church. Join a Bible study or prayer group where you can grow and serve with others.
Jesus is coming back soon, and the time to prepare is now. These seven steps aren’t just religious duties—they are ways to deepen your relationship with Christ and live with eternal purpose. Let us not be found sleeping but ready, waiting, and watching.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to live in constant readiness for Your return. Fill me with Your Spirit, purify my heart, and use me to advance Your kingdom. Amen.
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