Stop Predicting—Start Preparing | Mark 13:28-31

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Our text today is Mark 13:28-31:

“From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. — Mark 13:28-31

Jesus tells His disciples to look at a fig tree. Not to predict the future, but to prepare for it. Just like you can recognize the signs of changing seasons, you should recognize the signs of spiritual urgency. When the branches soften. When the leaves start budding. When the shift in the air says, “summer is near.”

Jesus says: That’s how close I am. At the gates. Nearer than you realize.

But then He anchors them all with this line: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”

This world is temporary. His Word is not. Everything else will shake. But his truth will stand. It's unshakable.

We spend so much useless energy trying to guess the timeline.

• When will the end come?
• Who’s the antichrist?
• What about this global event?
• What does this sign mean?

But Jesus isn’t asking you to decode the calendar. He’s asking you to remain spiritually alert, awake, and ready. To recognize the season and stop worrying about the date. Because the truth is—Jesus may return in your lifetime. Or not. But either way, you will stand before King Jesus. And that’s not meant to cause panic. It’s meant to produce urgency, holiness, and hope.

So are you ready?

I not, trust in King Jesus today.

Jesus, I believe your Word is true and eternal. While this world fades, you remain. Today, I surrender my life to you. I place my faith not in signs, success, or security—but in your saving grace. Forgive my sin. Fill me with your Spirit. Make me ready for your return. From this day forward, I choose to follow you as my Savior, my King, and my only hope. Amen.

#StayReady, #Mark13, #UnshakableWord

ASK THIS:

1. Why do you think Jesus uses the fig tree as an example?
2. What “season signs” do you see in the world today?
3. How do you guard against spiritual apathy while waiting?
4. What does it mean to trust Jesus’ words more than headlines?

DO THIS:

Write this down and post it somewhere visible: “Everything else will pass—but His Word never will.” And ask yourself daily: Am I ready?

PRAY THIS:

Jesus, I believe your Word is true and eternal. While this world fades, you remain. Today, I surrender my life to you. I place my faith not in signs, success, or security—but in your saving grace. Forgive my sin. Fill me with your Spirit. Make me ready for your return. From this day forward, I choose to follow you as my Savior, my King, and my only hope. Amen.

PLAY THIS:

"Come, Lord Jesus, Come."