Hi Nicole,
 
I was just wondering why a third group isn’t possible, namely, those who are seeking a holy life and pleasing God and yet do not believe there is strong scriptural evidence of a pre-tribulation rapture. They, too, have given up many things in this life, looking forward to that which is to come and eagerly watching for Jesus’ return, moving by the Spirit’s guidance. They see any future suffering under the persecution by the Antichrist (NOT suffering under the wrath of God, which is different) as merely a continuation of the refining process currently taking place in the Church (many are suffering and dying for their faith today) – many have rejoiced in being counted worthy to face such suffering because of what it means (Acts 5:41, Matthew 5:11-12, John 15:18-21). It has nothing to do with our own penitence or atonement for our sins, as Jesus paid the whole price. It has everything to do with our love for Him, standing with Him despite the cost to ourselves, no matter how late the hour.
 
Isn’t that how it’s supposed to be today? Don’t we live a God-honoring life because we love Him, not because we’re afraid of being left behind from a secret rapture? I can’t help but wonder if living a life of holiness for the goal of being worthy of a pre-tribulation rapture is seeking a good thing for the wrong reason. I feel a strong conviction from Spirit on this. We should live a life of holiness because we love Him and want to be like Him, regardless of our own individual futures in this short life.
 
Thank you for being faithful in sharing your thoughts and heart on various matters. I always look forward to reading your messages and can see that you have a heart longing to please God in every way. He knows it all. :)
 
Lisa
 
(Original message from Nicole: http://www.fivedoves.com/letters/june2012/nicole619-2.htm)