What a joyous time for the believer! When Jesus comes a second time, the dead in Christ will rise and the living will join them to meet the Lord in the air (I Thessalonians 4:13-17). In the meantime, there is a vicious battle you must fight daily because your spiritual enemies are many, and mighty and malicious.

Put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.

I Thessalonians 5:8

Put on your spiritual breastplate and stay watchful and sober. Faith in the God who is always with you will guard your heart against the temptations of pride, passion and self-conceit. Fervent love for Him will thwart temptations that might turn you away from Him and to another. Remember your helmet – the lively hope of salvation – your defense of the head. Don’t let the pleasures of sin intoxicate you. Understand the great gift God’s mercy and grace bestow upon you. As one who puts your trust in Christ, be encouraged to live on the path of obedience to Him. Let nothing shake the hope of salvation from you.

He is Lord. Be grounded in His Word. Pray for this nation and its leaders…that none would miss out on the blessings of Jesus’ second coming.

Recommended Reading: I Thessalonians 5:1-11