Thursday, May 23, 2013

Time To Prepare: Enoch As Our Model

As we continue in our obedience of watching for the signs of Christ's return for His Church Saints, the nearness of the hour dictates that we stay prepared - after all, we know that we are the bride of Christ and we know that His coming is upon us. 

For the sake of this discussion, we don't need to repeat all of the signs that we have been tracking - anyone following the current news in the context of biblical prophecy knows this already. We know just how close we are. But while we watch the various signs of this generation, we also have to remember to "take it up a notch" in our relationship with Christ Jesus. 



We have been given our knowledge of the prophetic scriptures for a variety of reasons - to warn others, to witness to others in the context of prophetic fulfillment, recognition that God is in control and has a plan for mankind that is being carried out, to give us peace in these difficult times, etc. But one of the most important reasons for biblical prophecy is so we can be spiritually prepared for what awaits us - ascending "in the twinkling of an eye" to Heaven and facing Jesus in person - Jesus, our bridegroom.


What bride doesn't prepare for her wedding date? What bride isn't consumed with wedding preparations as that date approaches? What bride doesn't get more and more excited as that day approaches? 




We can look at Enoch - arguably the first person "gathered up" as a model for the Church Saints and from this we can find our pathway:




Genesis 5:24

Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.




Hebrews 11:5

By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: "He could not be found, because God had taken him away." For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God.




Short and simple. 

This one doesn't require a lot of great insight or complicated interpretation. It's right there. Enoch "walked faithfully with God", "pleased God" and "was taken from this life so he did not experience death". Sounds like a picture of the "gathering up" of the Church Saints doesn't it? 



So, how do we prepare for meeting with our bridegroom, Christ?



We can do as Enoch did. We can walk with God, which suggests a minute to minute, second to second connection with God. How is this accomplished?



The apostle Paul covered this topic, as he discussed the "gathering up" in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18:


"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus"




The key part of this passage seems to be continual prayer



This may seem obvious, but maybe not. We can become so consumed with tracking the news, discussing context, discussing world events, the Middle East, approaching totalitarianism, etc., that often the central focus and most important point (our connection to Jesus and our imminent meeting with Him) can get lost in the shuffle. 




Perhaps this is why we are given this directive:


Luke 21:28

"When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption is drawing near"



By the term "lifting our heads", we can gain important insight. That strongly implies a solitary focus on Jesus as we watch for His return. It also implies a situation of focusing less and less on the events of this world (while continuing our diligent watch, of course) - and in the midst of our continual watching, our focus needs to be on Jesus and His coming, and everything that this fact implies. 



How do we want Jesus to find us when He returns? 



Any Christian knows that our faith is a series of ups and downs. Over the years we have periods where we feel closer to God and we have periods where we become distracted and lose that focus, as the events of life interfere with this "walk". It's an easy trap to fall in. There are so many life's distractions - school, jobs, bills, projects, sports, vacations, trips to the mall, etc. None of which are sinful, but all of which can separate us from God and interrupt the process of "walking with God"


As the return of Jesus approaches, we have to shift our focus to what really matters and none of these distractions really matter


I believe in these last hours, we want to stay connected with God 24/7 and see Enoch as our model. We need to continually "walk with God" and we need to be looking up - at all times. 



From the minute we wake up in the morning until the minute our heads hit the pillow, we need to be walking with God - and preparing to meet Jesus. We need to attempt to be as pure as possible and avoid sin as much as humanly possible. We need to be consumed with Jesus and what He did on the cross. 


I'll never forget reading some advice given by Hal Lindsey in one of his many books. I wish I had the direct quote, but the essence of his quote can be conveyed. Basically, brother Hal said the following:


We need to immerse ourselves as much as possible, throughout every day - every waking moment - on the sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross for us, and the magnitude and significance of that event.


Jesus is coming, and we know He is coming quite soon. We should be excited as we anticipate this coming date and we need to be spiritually "peaking" in our love for Christ and our attempts to live as He would have us live. 

Or more simply put, we need to be like Enoch and walk with God.

Maranatha!
Our Lord Comes!



20 comments:

Elizabeth said...

What encouragement! Thank you, Scott. Ob, Lord Jesus, how we long for your appearing! Love to you all, Elizabetb

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful way to start the day! Thank you.
Joni

Unknown said...

Thank you for this reminder! It is easy to get distracted and consumed with day to day things. I pray that this is the day we get to see our savior face to face.....Maranatha, Lord come quickly!!!!
Hubae

Waterer said...

Thank you Scott -so much!kr

Kem said...

So encouraging and needed. Thank you Scott.
Kem

Brad said...

Wonderful Scott....I'm in tears at my desk at work!!!

ChristineInCleveland said...

Needed to hear this, right about now! Lots of harassment from the Devil going on in my home these days. Get so ashamed of myself when I lose my temper and fight back. All I cling to is my faith to get me through...get back up and try again to overcome the obstacles. I come to this site every day to catch up on all the latest prophetic headlines & am so grateful for the fellowship I find here. Scott, you are well appreciated! Looking forward to meeting you all at the Wedding Feast of the Lamb!

Maranatha... :-)

Sheri said...

I have tears rolling down my face. I needed this reminder and encouragement. It's so easy to read the news...and take my eyes off Him. This world's a scary place right now, But it's not our home.
Thank you Scott!

Anonymous said...

I feel the same as all the other people that wrote: Thank you for the putting things into the right perspective.

Dutch Treat said...

THE FACE OF JESUS: Once upon a time in a world forlorn, in a tiny stable an infant was born. It was in Bethlehem on a night so clear, that the face of Jesus first did appear. His face appeared to Mary and Joseph to whom it gave quite a glow. They knew He'd be someone special. For God had decreed it so. His face appeared to shepherds who came to worship and adore. For an angel told them a saviour was born of whom the prophets foretold years before. They were so deeply moved by what they'd seen and heard, that they couldn't wait to tell everyone what had just occurred. His face appeared to wise men who traveled far and wide, to locate their newborn king; and a star was their guide. They presented to Him gifts of myrrh, frankincense and gold. To see wealthy men honoring a child was a sight to behold. His face appeared to Simeon a pioused elderly man, who was filled with God's spirit and in tune with His plan. He longed to see his meesiah before his life would cease; and when he saw the child he knew he would die in peace. His face appeared to the temple teachers when He was just 12, who were amazed and astonished at the questions in which He'd delve. Although His parents did not know what this visit meant, for the first time Jesus realized why to this world He was sent. His face appeared to John the Baptist who traveled a barren land, to preach forgiveness and repentence. The kingdom of heaven was at hand. He baptized people so as to turn from all sin. He prepared the way and baptized Jesus so His ministry could begin. His face appeared to Satan who tempted Him 40 days; and tried to entice Him with worldly treasures in various ways. Satan longed to be worshipped and truly gave it his all. Yet Jesus resisted him and stayed true to God's call. His face appeared to 12 men an ordinary lot; and ranked high in society they certainly were not. Yet He saw something in them to help Him reach His goals. So they became His first disciples and fished for men's souls. His face appeared to Nicodemus a scribe and pharisee; and there was something about Jesus that sparked his curiosity. He knew that He was sent from God in order to teach all men; and Jesus said to enter heaven he must be born again. His face appeared to a woman who was sitting at the well; and while she was digging for water her life story He did tell. She was a despised Samaritan to whom all Jews cursed. Yet He showed her the way to living water that would forever quench thirst. She told the entire village what she'd seen and heard; and after meeting Jesus many were assured. His face appeared to a Roman Officer who's son was in bed lain. For the little lad was paralyzed and suffering in great pain. Jesus was impressed with his faith and how to Him he'd yield; and just by uttering a word the little boy was healed. His face appeared to a man who for 38 years had been ill. Lying by the Pool of Bethesda for living he'd lost his will. Jesus asked him if he wanted to get well; and by a simple command he was delivered from a personal hell. His face appeared to Jairus who's daughter was gravely ill; and her chances of survival were practically nil. So they went to his house where there was much weeping; and Jesus assured everyone that she was only sleeping. His face appeared to a woman whose slow bleeding was taking its toll; and just by touching his garment she was made whole. His face appeared to Bartimaeus who was totally blind; and came forward to Jesus for mercy to find. He recognized instantly that Jesus was his Lord; and purely by his faith his eyesight was restored.

Dutch Treat said...

THE FACE OF JESUS: (cont) Hisppeared to 5000 who had nothing to eat; and feeding that many people was no easy feat. Yet He took 2 pieces of fish and 5 small loaves of bread; and all 5000 returned to their home very well fed. His face appeared to Peter, James and John on a mountain top, where His face and clothes lit up which made a fantastic backdrop. Then the faces of Moses and Elijah were prominently displayed; and God proclaimed Jesus as His Son who must be obeyed. His face appeared to a rich youbg ruler who wanted to live forever. Yet fro mhis earthly ties he did not want to sever. Jesus said to follow Him and give his wealth to the poor. Yet in all his riches he felt far more secure. His face appeared to 10 lepers who wanted to get well. Jesus sir have mercy on us, all of them did yell. He healed all 10 of them out of compassion and concern. Yet only one of them came back to thank Him in return. His face appeared to Zacchaeus who collected taxes dishonestly; and sought a closer look. So he climbed a sycamore tree. Jesus showed him a love and compassion that was badly needed; and Zachaeus promised to pay back all those he had cheated. His face appeared to sisters Mary and Martha who grieved and cried. For their dear brother Lazarus had just died. Lazarus come out with a mighty shout He said; and by this great miracle He raised him from the dead. His face also appeared to some who weren't exactly thrilled. For they hated Him so much that they wanted Him killed. He exposed their selfish motives and when all was said and done; despite His great miracles they wouldn't accept Him as God's Son. His face appeared to many as He triumphantly entered the city. Yet 4 days later the wanted to crucify Him. What a pity. His face appeared to Judas whose objectives didn't match His; and who for 30 pieces of silver betrayed Him with a kiss. His face appeared to Pontius Pilate before whom He was tried, who knew that He was innocent and wanted to take His side. Yet he was so scared of a mob loaded for bear, that he decided to wash his hands of the entire affair. His face appeared to 2 men who on the cross with Him died; and one made a remark to Him that was rather snide. He mocked and taunted Jesus with intent to chastise; but the other one sought forgiveness; and he went to Paradise. His face appeared to Mary Magdaline who went out to the tomb, to pay her respect to Jesus; and she was full of gloom; but when she heard someone call her name her spirits must have soared. For when she turned around it was the face of her Risen Lord. His face appeared to 2 men on the Emmaus Road, when someone walked up beside them; and their emotions freely flowed; but when they stopped to eat that night and saw Jesus breaking bread, they knew instantly that He had risen from the dead. His face appeared to the disciples in various places throughout; and the nail scars in His hands erased any doubt. His mission to save the world from sin He did consumate; and was ready to return to the Father in His new glorified state. Shortly after that He ascended into the sky, so that He could be with His father up on high. Yet He sent the Great Comforter for us to receive, whose spirit rests and dwells in all those who believe. For as we struggle and toil in this world full of strife, simply by faith in Him He's promised us eternal life. For He's up there right now preparing for us a place, where we will dwell forever once we've finished our earthly race. Then we will finally be able to enter that Golden Door, where we will be with Him forever and evermore. For someday soon the face of Jesus WE'LL see; AND WHAT A GLORIOUS DAY THAT'S GOING TO BE! With love, Dutch

GG said...

Anonemy~

I do not post here that often, but I do monitor all that is being shared. Once again you come to create division and strife where it need not be. I say this so others will not fall prey to your false teachings. As you wish to hide behind your façade(s), you should seek God and ask for his forgiveness for your constant need to plant seeds of doubt, confusion all the while distorting the intent of his word.

Each person is at a different level in their walk with God. He has things under control. You my friend have shared many false links and distortions of truth and many have still forgiven you and allowed you to partake on this forum. That is a true reflection of God and grace.

Many times through the years you have come on here with fake names and titles claiming so much wisdom from above. Yet one thing, dear one, is that your heart is reflecting otherwise. You see, you keep 'telling' everyone how to interpret the word of God, all the while assuming we are not in proper fellowship with God.

Your heart is running counter to what Gods word says as a whole. Before you point fingers to discourage instead of encourage others, you should reflect on what your daily role is in trying to obstruct Gods messages to all his children through the many forums you travel.

Your approach is actually more damaging than helpful and I believe you know this. I believe and have seen many facets of your personality that you know right from wrong. You see, your heart shows to be a right fighter stance, instead of showing the way to the lost.

We don't need your false teachings once again to draw division. What we all need is to use these last days to draw many to Jesus. Repent for the hour is near, and do something positive with this precious time to help win souls, not chase them off because you seem to want to be 'theological' in this façade you carry. It no longer works. Actually, it is reflective of something missing on your part that you think you must come and create chaos in order to look like you have it all together. You may make statements about false teachings and tickling the ears, etc. The truth is, you are only using these scriptures in part. You too will be held accountable for false teachings.

So, you too my friend will also be held accountable for the many divisive steps you have taken to distort the truth according to God. Now would be a good time for you to sit back and let others spread the word of God, as he advises.

You are not always entitled to a front row seat in every scenario that comes ones way. He has this. Scott has this. We have this. Please use this time for proper fellowship. The time is drawing near and your antics are a mere cry for help, instead of being helpful. May God work on you as I have still been praying for you and your family by name. I trust he has this all under control. Come sit down with the rest of us dear brother/sister :) Truly, come sit, and learn and enjoy.

The other side of heaven you will not have this carnal nature anyway, so practice in the spirit now, pray in the spirit now, and be who you truly are in the spirit. The spirit that reflects all the wonderful fruit of God, nothing less.

God Bless!!
GG

Stephen said...

well, despiote all this, stocks REFUSE to drop....dow down 12
points after being alot lower.

I am NOT SURE the top is in....it
may NOT be.....which means more
RALLY TIME ahead.

I would need to see a pattern of
this market CLOSING DOWN 200 PLUS
a day before I am CONVINCED.

I really wish the top was in
but I AM NOT SURE.

Stephen >>>>>>>>>>>>>

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the encouragement Scott. I have been a little distracted lately and not feeling as close to God. I really miss feeling His presence. Soon and very soon we will all be together and home at last with Jesus.

Anonymous said...

Dutch, I'm still lovin your poems. Thanks.

ChristineInCleveland said...

Dutch,

Was this poem all originally written by you? It was more like a story in poetic form & so full of awe for our King... thanks for sharing such heartfelt testimony to His greatness!

WVBORN56 said...

Excellent Scott and very uplifting. Thanks for the message! Your faithfulness is much appreciated.

Unknown said...

This is very humbling and encouraging! I needed to read this,thank you! Yes we all know that Jesus'return is so near,and I understand exactly what you posted because I'm in need of a job and housing and those are definitely distractions,even though I continually watch and long for His appearing,it's like my mind is everywhere right now thinking about all of these stressful situations that I'm in,but even in these times I am growing closer to the Lord and just drawing on His strenghth to guide me and help me get through these tough times,thankfully our time on this earth is so short now and getting shorter by the day...come quickly Jesus!

Anonymous said...

This was awesome, and just what I needed today! Thank you so much for your diligent service to the Lord. I have learned so much from this blog. Peace and God Bless You Scott!

Scott said...

As I've said before, usually when I write these things, its been stewing in the brain for a while and things that I am 'telling myself'. We're all impatient and ready to go. I know I am. Regardless of the Middle East , the economics, etc., we're getting to the end of the generation just in number of years (assuming it began ~ the WWI era and assuming a generation s ~120 years, and subtracting 7 for the Trib and whatever interval is between the gathering up and the beginning of the Trib....