
- 2 Timothy 3:1-5
Reading the words above from Second Timothy, it would be easy to say that yes, that is the total situation today and therefore the end of times is either here or soon will be underway. Granted, there is much to be fearful about in our modern world as societies are clearly breaking down, morality seems to be disappearing and those who celebrate in the Christian faith are increasingly mocked and scorned.
But there are two things to consider before taking such a view. Both of them lead to the realization that we should not be caught up in fear but yearning for the Truth that the Way can provide to us in providing real Life. The Way, the Truth and Life. of course, constitute the Living Christ and He is the only way to redemption.
The first of these things is looking at the good, not just the bad this world. The good consists of all the brave and strong souls who willingly suffer and stand for Christ, godly clean living and a strong moral code. There are millions upon millions of honorable and good people who are "fighting the good fight" for what is a godly lifestyle, but their story doesn't make news in a world of sin that enjoys reading about pain, suffering and sensationalism. Sadly, adversity sells stories and the fallen one knows that.
And then there is the second reason, and it's the one we should all know but in times of fear we often forget. Only God knows when time is up and when Jesus will return in triumph to rule the world. We can look at the world, study scriptures and make our guesses, but we just don't know and there's also good reason for that.
He wants us to be ready, not tomorrow or next year but now, for when the Trumpet sounds and the Savior comes back again, we need to have made our commitment to Jesus Christ before, not afterwards. After all, He died for us. Shouldn't we be thankful enough to take Him up on His offer of forgiveness using our own free will? If we want Eternity with Him, we'll do just that. Heed the warnings and take good advice. Everlasting life based upon faith which leads to belief is the only way to Salvation. Don't wait until it is too late.
Dear Lord, We thank you for the gift of Eternal Life through your grace in sacrificing the life of your only Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to break the chains of sin and our fear by following your love and opening our hearts to the Spirit and the Living Christ. In Jesus name' we pray, Amen.