Jude_
Scripture Jude 1:20-2120 But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.ObservationJude, probably Jesus' brother, is writing to an unknown group of Christians. His main point is to warn them about the false teaching that had been going around. There was a group of people who were teaching others that they could go on sinning because there sin was forgiven. They were using God's grace as a license to carry on in ungodly behavior.As he draws to a conclusion, he encourages the church to dig deeper into God's love. He also wanted the church to learn how to lean on the Holy Spirit. Additionally, he reminded us that our end goal is a life with Jesus.Understanding Waiting is best done with those who encourage.I went away to college for a short time compared to most. I lasted all of six months in Oregon, but it was the longest stretch of time I had ever spent away from home. After the winter session was spring break. I could not wait to get home, to see my family and friends, to sleep in my bed, and to see Southern California. As it got closer to spring break, I almost couldn't stand the wait any longer. I had never had so much anticipation to get home.As Christians, our home is not here on earth, our home is waiting for us in heaven. (Psalm 130:5) We are only here temporarily. And much like I couldn't wait to get home to see my family, we should be looking for Christ's return with the same anticipation. But as we wait, God has asked that we build each other up. It's almost like when you are telling someone who has never been to Santa Clarita how "awesome" it really is. You begin to peak that person's interest in your home. So it is to be in our lives, the excitement of being with Jesus is to overflow into the people around you. The good news is, we don't nee to fake sense of anticipation. Much like Paul wrote in Romans (8:26), Jude reminds us that we can rely on the Holy Spirit to show us exactly what to pray for. Which is also the best way to build each other up. Life application If I ask, the Holy Spirit will guide me all the way home.
Jesus, help me to rely on the Holy Spirit so that I can be an example to those around me. Help me to see my future so clearly that I can't help but to tell other's about where I am headed. Jesus, guide me so that I will not be disqualified from spending eternity with you.
- Tyler Galloway
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