Earthquakes, hurricanes, droughts, famine, violent political take-overs, global pandemics, shutdowns, financial uncertainty…. No one can argue that we are in a time of chaos! Although tragedy always has gone on and been present in many places, it seems our world has been even more shaken to the core in the past months!
Jesus warned of such situations in Matthew 24: 4-8, and as the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, in II Timothy 3:1-5. These verses are just a few of the many that foretell future events. It is so important that we are aware of these things, and understand them in a sound Biblical context. Jesus said, “However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen (of the final day and appearing of Christ to gather His church to Himself), not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows.” (Matthew 24: 36 NLT)
The chapter continues to give warnings to “be ready”. When He appears and gathers His Church, it will be in a “blink of an eye” (I Corinthians 15:52).
You don’t want to “be left behind”!
Why bring up this up? I am not trying to assume or predict a certain day/hour, but am seeking to understand the signs and the times. In I Chronicles 12:32, we read of the “children of Issachar, men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do…” Bible Prophecy and verses that teach on it are “not to scare us but to prepare us” (Ed Hindson). As we learn of this important part of scripture, we can be spiritually and emotionally prepared and not deceived! I have listened to excellent teachers/pastors on this topic for many months now, and want to share links to their websites. Jack Hibbs, a pastor in California is amazing and his series “Futures” goes through a solid understanding of Biblical prophecy and all that is happening around the world. (To watch this series... https://mediacenter.calvarycch.org/ and type “Futures” in the Search tab. See Other topics/teachings at www.jackhibbs.com) Jan Markell has been studying this for decades and features many speakers on her radio show (and conferences) (www.olivetreeviews.org) including Amir Tsarfati (www.beholdisrael.org) and many others!
I just completed a Bible study (DVD series) on “Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World” by Dr. David Jeremiah. (www.davidjeremiah.org) Lessons based on scriptures show how to maintain our confidence and peace in God through troubling times. I highly recommend this DVD Bible study and book, the “Futures” series (and others) by Pr. Jack Hibbs, and to check the other sites mentioned.
Remember Jesus’ words to His disciples right before His death (and resurrection), “Let not your hearts be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.” (John 14:1) He told them He was going away to “prepare a place” for them (and ALL of us who put our trust in HIM as the one and only way to the Father), and He promised He was coming back, so that where He is, we will be also, forever! He also encouraged His followers, “ I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NLT) He said to expect difficulties. In this world that rejected Him, those who hated the truth He brought, will hate His followers who continue to share and live in that truth! (Matthew 24:9) BUT….the good news of Jesus is that He is ALWAYS with us. He is the Good Shepherd who even though we “ walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.” Psalms 23: 4 (NLT)
Dear Lord, Give us eyes to see and ears to hear, and an ever growing desire to love and know Your Word and heed it! May we “be ready” for Your return, and faithful to be doing what You call us to do until that time! By Your grace and the power of Your Holy Spirit, may we endure to the end with faith and courage. We love You and thank You for always being with us!
In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen!