Living Ready for the Bridegroom

Inspired by insights from A.B. Simpson’s Days of Heaven

"Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him the glory. For the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready."
—Revelation 19:7

Picture a bride eagerly preparing for her wedding day. She carefully chooses her dress, attends to the smallest details, and dreams of the moment when she will stand face to face with her beloved. Her preparation is not a grim duty but a joyful anticipation.

Similarly, as believers, we are the bride of Christ, preparing for the glorious day of His return. Yet, A.B. Simpson reminds us that our readiness is not about withdrawing from the world in quiet introspection. True readiness involves fellowship with Christ in our private moments and active engagement in the world He loves.

The bride of Christ makes herself ready by walking in daily communion with Him, allowing His Spirit to cleanse and shape her. But this preparation also drives her outward—to reflect His love, share His truth, and serve others. Like the bride who shines not only for her groom but also for those celebrating with her, we prepare not only for Christ but also to bless those around us.

The danger comes when we view readiness as merely a private matter, retreating into ourselves. Holiness is not a musty retreat but a radiant expression of Christ’s life in us, lived out in our homes, workplaces, and communities.

Let us live each day as though it were the eve of the wedding feast, balancing quiet moments with Christ and active service in His name. Our readiness is not found in striving but in abiding—inwardly trusting and outwardly loving.

A Prayer of Confidence

Father,
We rejoice in the truth that we are Your bride, made ready by the finished work of Christ. Thank You for the fellowship we share with You in quiet moments and in the everyday rhythms of life. We trust You to continue shaping us, cleansing us, and equipping us to reflect Your love. Let our preparation for Your return be marked by joy, love, and a readiness to serve. We rest in Your sufficiency and look forward to the day when we will celebrate with You at the wedding feast of the Lamb. Amen.

Final Thought

The bride of Christ doesn’t prepare in isolation but in joyful partnership with her Lord and in service to the world He loves. Let’s live each day in anticipation, allowing His life in us to be a light to others as we await the day of the feast.