Lessons from the Fig Tree

Matthew 24:32-36

32 Now learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branches bud and its leaves begin to sprout, you know that summer is near. 33 In the same way, when you see all these things, you can know his return is very near, right at the door. 34 I tell you the truth, this generation will not pass from the scene until all these things take place. 35 Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear.

36 “However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows.

S - Scripture

35 My words will never disappear.

O - Observation

People know that the end will come (verse 33), we just don't know when (verse 36). The word near obviously has a much different meaning to God than it does to us. Since our lifespan is quite finite and God's reign is infinite, this is quite understandable. Even though people (and pretty much everything else) have a limited shelf life, God's Word never disappears (verse 35).

A - Application

I feel closest to God when I regularly read God's Word. Consider the following Scriptures:

Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. -John 15:5

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. -Psalm 119:105

Jesus says that God's Word will never disappear. The application is to invest time and energy in something that connects us to God, provides light in a dark world, and lasts forever.

P - Prayer

Lord, help me to be faithful in reading your Word. Speak to me. Inspire me. Change me. Help me to be more like you. Amen.