Romans 13:12: The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.
Expressing divine love is a Christian’s constant responsibility, but it is especially crucial in understanding the present time (lit., “knowing the season”). Paul was not referring to time in general but to the end-time and to the imminent return of the Lord Jesus. It is a time, therefore, for spiritual vigilance and industriousness: wake up from your slumber (cf. Eph. 5:14; 1 Peter 5:8). This need for alertness is because our salvation (ultimate or final salvation realized at the return of the Savior; cf. Rom. 8:23; Heb. 9:28; 1 Peter 1:5) is nearer now than when we first believed (cf. James 5:8). Each passing day in the faith brings final salvation and deliverance closer. 1
Application
- How much of your life is dedicated to your own worries and frustrations; and how much of your life is dedicated to the spiritual concerns of others?
- What is most urgent in your life today? Have you planted seeds of faith on earth that will produce a harvest, when you are gone to heaven?
Prayer
Lord, may Your light shine bright to lead me in the right direction, so I can do the right thing while there is still time.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
