Tuesday, August 20, 2024
In 66 AD, Jewish rebel leader Simon Bar Giora, predicted that an uprising of the Jewish people against the Roman Empire would usher in the end of the world. Popes, religious leaders, psychics, scientists, and other faith traditions have all weighed in on the end of the world, whether it be tomorrow or millions of years in the future. And they’ve all been wrong. History has shown if someone predicts a specific date, we can be sure it will not happen on that day.
When Jesus taught about the end times, he warned his disciples that many people would look at the events happening around them and predict that the end is near. Many claim to speak in Jesus’ name, only to inspire fear and panic. But Jesus offers his followers words of encouragement and peace.
Matthew 24:4-6
4 Jesus told them, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, 5 for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah.’ They will deceive many. 6 And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately.”
When I look at what is happening in our country and our world, I can easily fall into a place of fear. It seems like everything around us is being turned upside down. Truth has become relative, wrong is being called right, and people are confused and afraid. Christians around the world are suffering great persecution—some giving their lives for their faith.
It can feel pretty hopeless.
Living in the chaos of the world should bring us to our knees. Yet as Christians, we know how this story ends. We will suffer before Jesus returns to claim his bride (Revelation 19:7–9; Revelation 21:1-2). Things will get worse before they get better. But during our suffering, we cling to the promises of Jesus.
Matthew 28:20b
“And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Jesus promises to strengthen us, to be with us, and that the suffering will eventually end. This world is not our forever, which brings us great hope. Those who reject Jesus have no hope for the future. However, we have a living hope, and through that living hope, a future of unspeakable joy.
Questions:
Does the end of the world cause you to fear? Where does your hope for your eternal future lie?
Next Steps:
When you are tempted to fear, take some time to worship by listening to “Hymn of Heaven” by Phil Wickham.
21 Days of Prayer - Day 9
Focus: The Next Generation (Proverbs 22:6)
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the precious gift of children that you have entrusted to us. Help us to guide them in your ways and to nurture their unique gifts and talents. We praise you for making our children in your image and giving them a share of our best qualities. Give us patience when we see our children struggle with doubt, pride, or selfishness, and remind us of your grace and mercy in our own lives. Lead us and our children back to your purpose and your truth. Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Hebrews 3:14
For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ.
Today’s post was written by Julie Mabus, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut devotional.