Jude 1: 17 – 21
But you, beloved, ought to remember the words that were spoken beforehand by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ, that they were saying to you, “In the last time there will be mockers, following after their own ungodly lusts.” These are the ones who cause divisions, worldly-minded, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God.
I am really blessed by this encouragement and direction from the Lord. I hope it blesses you too. A friend of mine said today that she believes we are in the last days, that maybe Jesus is on his way. Well, one must say we are living in strange times.
Without a doubt, the last week has demonstrated just what this verse predicts. What I love about this, though, is that it doesn’t leave us in a state of desperation. It tells us exactly what we need for our own hearts’ safety. Thanks to God for that.
When you read the introduction to this chapter you learn that Jude wrote to the called. I think this might offer an additional measure of comfort but listen to exactly what he calls you, “To those who are the called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ.” Then part of his purpose in writing is revealed in the next words, “May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you” (Jude 1: 2). The author wants to give you the wisdom and guidance which will multiply love, peace and mercy to you. Therefore, he intones, “Beloved, build(ing) yourselves up on your most holy faith (by) praying in the Holy Spirit.” Second, “keep yourselves in the love of God.”
So, ask yourself, what do you need to do to keep yourself in the love of God. This question is intended to help you take care of yourself. It is not about others. Clearly, one of the things Jude recommends is praying in the Spirit.
Whether these days pass, or they don’t, we need to find our solace and our strength in the Lord Jesus. We need to immerse ourselves in God’s care and be leaders among men. We need to protect and build up our spirits so that we can deal with the mockers, etc. warned about in this scripture and so that we can care for those we love. The more we increase our love and prayer quotient the better we will be able to be the bright and shining light that is not hidden.
This is advice for today, very timely advice. Spread it to others to encourage and protect them.
Ivey,
We surely cannot predict the end of times but we can predict that each of us will have an end of time at least in this earthly realm. Mercy, Peace, and Love do not seem to be part of what we are witnessing now. Should we hold a rally, take out ads in the local paper, or get on Social media to spread the word. Absolutely not in my opinion but rather what you state from Jude 1:2 is the polar opposite if what we are witnessing. I cannot help but to think what are others witnessing hen they see me and my actions. Do they see a change of heart, priorities, and a change of allegiance? Is my light shining brightly through all this fog or I am getting pulled into the trap. Your words are so incredibly powerful–we are the leaders of men. I am so thankful for your devotional today as we need to be keenly aware of what we display if we are to bring others to Christ. Then fending off the mockers is not an issue as we have the strength to overcome and shine brighter than they could ever imagine. Reminds me of many times in the book of Mark where we are shown from Jesus how to do this humbly. He has an opportunity to draw a crowd but choses not to, heals the sick and drives off demons but does not let them speak as they who he is and heals the man of leprosy and ask him to tell no one—no fan fare needed but trust in a hope they cannot see. Thanks again as you are awesome and I feel the lord speaking through you and am so thankful you are sharing