Daily Devotional
The Certainty of Jesus’ Return
“And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, ‘Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.’”
Acts 1:10-11
July 9, 2023
Ponder This
If I did not know the Bible, if I did not know Bible prophecy, if I did not understand who Jesus is and what God has planned, I would be a world-class pessimist. This world is like a Shakespearean tragedy. When you read a Shakespearean tragedy, you know it’s coming to an untimely end, and nothing can stop it. The same is true for this world apart from Jesus. Without the Lord Jesus Christ, I would be an industrial-strength pessimist, but I’m a glowing optimist. We need not be disturbed! We must not be deceived, because, friend, we will not be disappointed. You can be sure that Jesus Christ, who came the first time, is coming again. “This same Jesus,” that angel said, “who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”
- How does remembering Jesus’ promised return give you hope even in the most difficult times?
- Who do you know that needs to hear of this hope today?
Practice This
Make a list of world events or personal events that trouble your heart. Make a corresponding list of how Jesus gives you hope in those matters.
FOR YOUR GIFT TO THE MINISTRY
Front Porch Moments by Gayle Foster
WITH KEY INSIGHTS FROM HER FATHER, ADRIAN ROGERS
I try to unplug each morning with Jesus with just my rocking chair, my Bible, and a pen.
Having a secret place is very important because I know that Jesus is always there waiting for me. I know where I can find Him! His presence is everywhere, but there are places where it is so thick you can cut it with a knife. You may not even have a front porch, but there is a secret place for you as well. God’s invitations are for anyone who will respond. There is no more important request than the one found in Psalm 27:8: “My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘Lord, I am coming.’”
