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The Importance of Being Prepared
When considering our departure from this world, having a solid exit strategy is essential. Just as military operations and emergency planning require careful forethought, our spiritual preparedness demands the same attention.
Three Key Elements of a Biblical Exit Strategy
Being Saved
The foundation of any spiritual exit strategy begins with salvation through Jesus Christ. Looking at Enoch's example in Genesis 5:21-24, we see how God used the birth of his son Methuselah ("when he is gone, it will come") to draw Enoch to faith. The name itself was prophetic, as Methuselah died the same year as the great flood.
God uses various means to draw people to salvation:
- Contemplation of judgment (Psalm 9:17)
- Recognition of God's love at Calvary (Romans 5:8)
- Conviction of sin (John 16:7-11)
- Divine drawing (John 6:44)
Salvation comes through simple faith in Christ's finished work, as Romans 10:9-10 explains: "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."
Being Ready for Sudden Departure
Scripture tells us that "Enoch walked with God and he was not, for God took him" (Genesis 5:24). Hebrews 11:5 elaborates that "by faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death." This sudden departure illustrates two possible ways believers may exit this world:
- Through the rapture - characterized by being:
- Sudden
- Selective
- Serious
- Sad (for those left behind)
- Through death - which comes unexpectedly even when anticipated
Living in Service
Enoch's life exemplified two crucial aspects of serving God:
- A Visible Walk
- Demonstrated consistent faith
- Lived authentically for 300 years
- Showed dedication matching his name's meaning ("dedicated")
- A Verbal Walk
- Served as the world's first prophet
- Preached about coming judgment
- Called others to repentance
Living with Purpose
Our exit strategy should reflect both readiness and active service. As Jesus commanded in Matthew 28, we are equipped and called to witness while there is still time. Like Enoch, we should aim to leave this world saved, prepared for sudden departure, and actively serving the Lord.
The contrast between those who die without preparation and those who die in faith is stark. While some face death with regret or uncertainty, believers can face it with confidence, knowing their eternal destination is secure through faith in Christ.