How to Prepare For 2022
If there is one thing that causes people all around the world to look forward and think of tomorrow, it is the new year. A time of celebration, excitement, and reflection. Many people thought 2020 was a difficult year, however we quickly realized 2021 was equally up to the task. Looking forward, many have hope for 2022, while others have dread. I believe as Christians we have a unique perspective on the new year that shouldn’t be forgotten. This perspective, if built on the Word of God, is a solid foundation. Witnesses have documented Jesus’ own words with Him cautioning the listeners and later readers to pay attention to His words. For when we lean on His words and act upon them in like manner, we are prepared for the season ahead in 2022. Matthew 7:24-27, “24 “Therefore, everyone who hears these words of Mine, and acts on them, will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of Mine, and does not act on them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and it fell—and its collapse was great.”
Here we see two people. The first has taken God’s Word and is acting upon it. “Therefore, everyone who hears these words of Mine, and acts on them, will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” This person not only is listening to the Jesus’ teachings, but is apparently meditating on it since the listener knows when and how to act upon the teaching. They know what word applies to what life scenario. This is critical for the believers to know; the Bible is God’s knowledge written down for us. Without blemish and applicable at all times in our life, to include 2022. Thus, we need to be adherent to the Word of God and be like Proverbs 1:7 which states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
We do not know what 2022 will hold, however we know what God’s word says for the coming end of the age and we know that things are to get rough. If you have ever been around a woman in labor, you will understand this; this age is showing signs of labor pains for a transition into the next. These labor signs can be read throughout the Bible if you need help on where to first look, I would encourage you to read 1-2 Thessalonians, John 14 and 1-2 Peter.
Nevertheless, as believers when we act upon Jesus’ words, we find that whatever 2022 will throw at us is insignificant with Jesus at the helm of our life. “25 And the rain fell and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock.” How, interesting that God does not promise an easy life, in fact He warns of what is coming, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” John 16:33. Yet, it doesn’t matter for us who are saved and are acting upon the Word of God. There are no surprises to Jesus in 2022. This should be a comfort to us who are entering into this year.
However, there is a second group that Jesus discusses in Matthew 7. This group is the person who does not act upon Jesus’ words and decides that they are in control of their own life and will act in their own knowledge, work, and understanding. “26 And everyone who hears these words of Mine, and does not act on them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and it fell—and its collapse was great.” It should be noted that Jesus’ emphasizes the end, “and its collapse was great.” How eerie of a statement. For those who reject to listen to the Word of God, 2022 will be a year that will certainly reflect uncertainty, fear, and possible calamity.
Now there might be some who are thinking I am taking this to an extreme and that God did not intend for it to be used in this manner, however I would argue that verses 28 and 29 of Matthew 7 reflect the serious and contextual accuracy of today’s post. “28 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29 for He was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes.” Jesus is being recognized as having authority. This means two things; one He knows what He is talking about, and two He wasn’t shy about making sure people understood He was serious and clear with His teaching.
So, as we go into 2022, we need to see if we are acting upon His word or are we just acting like believers. The best way to see homes that are built on a solid foundation is for storms, and with 2022 arriving we can be rest assured we have storms coming. How lucky are those who have acted upon His word and adhere to Jesus Christ and His Gospel. For those who are not saved or are unsure, you can be sure right this very minute. Ask Jesus to forgive you of your sins and ask for Him to live inside your heart. THAT’S IT! If you mean it, send us an email and we would love to reach out and help you along on this amazing journey. 2022 can be an exciting year of adventure for those who are adequately in God’s loving embrace. Yet this embrace only comes from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming
JL