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A Bride Prepared
So Shall We Ever be With the Lord
We members of the Church who hope to be a
part of the Bride must consider our
status in the eyes of God. Are we ready – are we prepared? Do we
honestly examine ourselves whether we be in the faith (2
Corinthians 13:5)? The parable of the ten virgins indicates that only
half of those members who believe they are prepared and able to utilize
God’s Spirit – will make it.
Listen to the warnings of Jesus Christ for the period of time
very shortly before His coming. “While the Bridegroom tarried,
they all slumbered and slept.” (Matthew 25:5) We would do well
to hearken and give heed to the fact that Christ’s description of those
of us in this end-time, is that we are not living up to His expectations
of the Bride.
Have we developed the
golden character that is required to rule in the world tomorrow? Do we
possess the rich understanding of the way of God that is so vividly
portrayed in the Scriptures? Can we visualize a world without evil – a
world being created in God’s righteousness? How far short of Christ’s
expectations are we? “I counsel you to buy of Me gold tried in the
fire, that you may be rich; and white raiment [righteousness],
that you may be clothed, and that the shame of your nakedness does not
appear; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.”
(Revelation 3:18)
We must be actively
utilizing spiritual character for the good of the brethren while
maintaining a contrite attitude of service. Be so doing! Take a
stand for righteousness' sake! Defend to the death the true principles
of God! Speak of right doctrine! Live it! Put it into practice among
all the brethren! Correct those who miss the mark because they, too,
are working out their own salvation – and they are our brothers.
Time is short! The
Israelitish nations of today are following closely in the wayward steps
of our forefathers who forsook God and His truth. The time of Jacob’s
trouble is upon us! Some will be spared, others will be martyred, and a
few will be carried away into captivity. Let us ask ourselves how we
measure up to our high calling. Is being the Bride of Christ worth more
than anything else? Can it be said of us, “They loved not their
lives unto the death,”? (Revelation 12:11)
Strive to
come together with every true Christian on the doctrine we hold in
common – in the unity of the Spirit. Let us not be separated by the
agendas of men. Fight against the abuses imposed on innocent
brethren. Be very guarded of men who are despisers of those who do
good and who proudly exploit the weak members (2 Timothy 3:3). Be wise
to the compromises of the great deceiver. Likewise, be watchful of
those who close their eyes to the principles of Christ to achieve their
goals. God has never directed anyone to violate His way or His law to
achieve a purpose.
An
awe-inspiring destiny awaits us – eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath
prepared for them that love Him (1 Corinthians 2:9). Speak out
without fear when men or organizations seek the preeminence. Encourage
one another to serve others. Look to God! Look for the coming of the
Bridegroom, Jesus Christ! Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.
Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him: for the marriage of
the Lamb is come and His Bride has made
herself ready! … so shall we ever be with the Lord!
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