PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 24:1-8
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed.” (Matthew 24:6)
Sometimes, like the disciples, we are impressed with what our world can do.
But Jesus sees beyond our supposed greatness to the reality of flawed human nature.
Human nature cannot be contained, it’s only a matter of time before it surfaces.
Events in recent decades are revealing the fault lines of an imminent social quake.
This has always happened, history has always swung between glory and gory.
But Jesus predicts this will get worse towards the end, the beginning of birth pangs.
And then he says ‘no need to be alarmed!’… is he serious?
Don’t be surprised by the rise of corruption, violence, immorality or extremism…
But do not be derailed by them either… thrown into fear and despair.
When alarming things happen, remind yourself that the Lord is still in charge.
And renew your resolve to join him in kingdom work, loving and serving in his Name.
No matter what happens politically, socially, economically, Jesus calls us to stand firm.
Stand firm in his love, joy, peace – shining like a light in a dark, dark world.
This is what impresses him, not buildings or bank accounts or church programs, etc.
PRAYER
Lord, being alarmed will only enhance the crisis. May tough times make us more determined to show the world your better way, to impress the world with your kingdom of love!
When I listen to the news or I read articles about another species under risk of extermination – or I see the devastation wrought by climate change – I do get stressed out! I do love this world and I want to protect it. It means I have to do my part – even as limited as it can be. How to stay calm even as I see so many bad things happening! What I do know is that my redeemer live – echoing the words of Job while in the midst of terrible turmoil! Lord help me to stay the course – to seek what’s bet – to keep your kingdom first and to be a good steward of the creation you have entrusted to us!
In times like these, faith over fear.
The Lord had said there would be times like these, and worse. Hang on to God. He was and still is victorious. One day it will end. All this needs to happen. His kingdom will come in full one day. Bank on His promises. He is here with us as He promised. Stand firm. Be the Light. Let His Light shine in us and through us. Serve Him always. May others see that we are living for Jesus by what we say and do.
Standing on the promises that cannot fail.
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God.
Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God, my Savior;
Standing, standing,
I’m standing on the promises of God.