Peter's reminder that the END IS NEAR is followed by immensely practical commands regarding Christian living. Believers, in light of Christ's imminent return, must think soberly, pray, love and serve. As long as we are captivated by the world around us rather than our Saviour, none of these things will come natural to us, but as soon as we begin to live in light of eternity, our prayers will change, we will love our brother and sisters in Christ, and we will use the gifts God has given us to build up His body - the church.