JANUARY “It’s Time to Go Deeper”
SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY
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Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
LIVING WITH ETERNITY IN VIEW
“And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.”
(Revelation 22:12)
Revelation 22:12 reminds us that Jesus is coming again, bringing both reward and accountability. This promise isn’t meant to stir anxiety, but rather to ignite hope and intentionality in our lives. When we keep our eyes on the eternal, our priorities shift. Temporary pursuits, while still part of life, take a backseat to the things that truly matter—loving God, loving others, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Living with eternity in view can change our attitude toward everything: our work, our relationships, and even our personal struggles, because we know that this life is not our final destination.
In the book of Acts, we see a vibrant picture of believers who lived daily in light of Jesus’ promised return (Acts 2:42–47). These early Christians were united in fellowship, committed to the apostles’ teaching, and dedicated to sharing the message of salvation. Their anticipation of the Lord’s coming fueled their evangelistic fervor and their generosity. They believed Jesus could return at any moment, and this belief shaped the way they prayed, served, and loved.
How does the promise of Jesus’ return influence your daily life? Scripture teaches us to stay alert and to be faithful with every opportunity God provides. When we recognize that our time on earth is temporary, we begin to see each day as a chance to invest in what will last forever—our relationship with God and the impact we have on others for His sake.
- Reflect: Take a moment to consider how you’re spending your time, resources, and energy. Are you investing in eternal realities or merely pursuing temporary goals?
- Act: Write down one intentional step you can take this week to live with eternity in view. It could be sharing your faith with a friend, volunteering in a ministry, practicing generosity toward someone in need, or dedicating more time to prayer and Bible study.
- Commit: Ask the Lord to help you stay focused on what will matter most when Christ returns.
Imagine preparing for a guest you deeply care about and are eager to see. You clean your home, arrange furniture, and plan a special meal—everything is done with a joyful anticipation of their arrival. In the same way, we prepare our hearts and lives for Jesus’ return. We remove any spiritual clutter—sinful habits, misplaced priorities—and make room for the Holy Spirit to work. We anticipate His coming, not with fear, but with genuine excitement, because we long to see Him face-to-face.
Prayer – Lord Jesus, thank You for the promise of Your return. Teach me to live every moment with eternity in view. Show me how to steward my time, gifts, and relationships in ways that honor You. Keep my heart ready and my life focused on what truly lasts, so that I may bring You glory. In Your holy name, Amen.
FRIDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Lamar Knight’s Family In CA Fires
Rebecca Smith
Michael Stanley
Mrs. Franklin
Greg Schriener
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ben Bruce
Carol Lawhead
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Newby
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donna Plunkett’s Brother-in-law
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ellen Boyd
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gail Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Jessica Headrick
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Kim McClain’s Sister
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lee Cronan
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Linda Lanier
Lonzo Christian
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Mike Bryan
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Witcher