3 ^1-5 Don’t be naive. There are difficult times ahead. As the end approaches, people are going to be self-absorbed, money-hungry, self-promoting, stuck-up, profane, contemptuous of parents, crude, coarse, dog-eat-dog, unbending, slanderers, impulsively wild, savage, cynical, treacherous, ruthless, bloated windbags, addicted to lust, and allergic to God. They’ll make a show of religion, but behind the scenes they’re animals. Stay clear of these people.

2 Timothy 3:1-5 (MSG)

The Scripture verses above often lead to discussions about whether or not we are in the last days. Theologians agree that we have been in the End Times since the Resurrection, but as time goes by the end is unarguably growing closer.

Some people get caught up in End Times prophecy, etc., pointing to all the events and circumstances which indicate the End is Near. While I’m no prophet, I can say with some confidence that they are correct about these being our last days.

For each one of us, the end is near; whether in moments, months, years, or decades, death is on everyone’s horizon, and much too soon.

¹⁵ See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, ¹⁶ redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Ephesians 5:15-17 (NKJV)

While some might prepare to survive the Tribulation by stockpiling supplies and learning wilderness techniques, we would be more prudent to redeem whatever time we have.

How then do we walk circumspectly? The Message puts it in plain language:

^11-16 Don’t waste your time on useless work, mere busywork, the barren pursuits of darkness. Expose these things for the sham they are. It’s a scandal when people waste their lives on things they must do in the darkness where no one will see. Rip the cover off those frauds and see how attractive they look in the light of Christ.

Wake up from your sleep,
Climb out of your coffins;
Christ will show you the light!

So watch your step. Use your head. Make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times!

¹⁷ Don’t live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants.

Ephesians 5:15-17 (MSG)

Whether you live to see Our Lord’s return to Earth or you succumb sooner to accident or illness, be ready to meet your Maker, knowing you’ve done your best to do His will with the time you’ve been given. Accept Christ’s salvation and let the End Times take care of themselves.