Be Ready by . . . Embracing God’s Master Plan

It is wise study the times, seasons, and prophetic vision pointing to the second coming of Christ, but it is perhaps even more helpful to consider God’s overall prophetic vision: His divine master plan for mankind.

If we view Jesus’ return through the perspective of a single event rather than through the eyes of God’s glorious plan, we’ll lack the eager expectation that enables us to stay diligent in our obedience to the end. We are vulnerable—easy prey for distraction, discouragement, or deception.

God drew up this master plan for His kingdom before time began. Numerous Scripture passagesconfirm this truth, including Isaiah 46:9–10 (ESV): “I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.’”

Yes, God Almighty has a master plan that was formulated before time began, and in this regard He declares: “I will accomplish all My purpose.” This explains why Jesus is referred to as “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world” (Revelation 13:8 NKJV). This revealing statement tells us that God knew before He created our seen world that mankind would mess up and be in need of a Redeemer.

The magnitude of love and generosity in His master plan is incomprehensible and generates greater astonishment the more we understand the glory of the One we’re talking about. This is God Almighty, Creator of everything seen and unseen! The depth of His power and wisdom revealed in just visible creation causes profound wonder and awe.

Even better, this glorious Creator has chosen to adopt us! Yes, we who are less than specks in a vast universe are the focus of His affection. And we must keep in mind, this is only the seen universe; there is an unseen realm that we can safely assume vastly trumps our seen world. The apostle Paul touched on this by writing, “By Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers” (Colossians 1:16 NKJV).

Thank You, Dear Lord, that You have a master plan, one that includes not only creating me and saving me, but also returning to take me to heaven to live with You forever. Amen!