“Watch therefore and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:36
As I watch the news I am reminded of an end-time movie I once watched. The scenes in the movie were much like our present reality. Panic spreading, protests raging, wars and rumors of wars, murders, and mayhem. This world that we live in is out of control and has seemed to have gone crazy and there is no rewind button. We can’t change the channel, put it on pause, or turn it off. This is real life, real-time, and end time. Daily there is something happening that could possibly shake up the world from what we’ve once known it to be. The bible tells us that in the last days perilous times would come. (2 Timothy 3:1) Yes, we are living in very tumultuous times. While the media spotlight is zoomed in on politics, protests, panic, and predicaments, we must be mindful to keep our eyes on Jesus. We can’t allow distractions, divisions, and deceptions to alter our vision.
Distractions
Though we are to be aware of world events, we cannot let those things consume us. I know it’s easier said than done. It’s hard not to be overwhelmed or even fearful by the day-to-day issues that affect us directly or indirectly. Seeing the tragedies and injustices that go on can weigh you down. Nonetheless, these calamities must prompt us to seek God’s face and pray. They also remind us that this world is not our home.
Although we are to be watchful of the things that are happening in the world, our utmost priority is to look after our spiritual lives and our personal relationship with God. Being alert, prayerful, repenting, being transformed into Christ’s image, and advancing God’s kingdom must take precedence over the things of this world. We cannot be so consumed with the temporal that we neglect the eternal. “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things that are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)
Divisions
I’ve heard more than my share of political views, complaints, and debates lately. People are more divided than I’ve ever seen in my lifetime. The dividing line has become longer and wider. Racial, gender, political, religious, and family disunity are just a few issues that have caused major division in our society. It’s very disheartening but as despairing as it may be, it’s no surprise. Jesus said that He did not come to bring peace on earth but a sword. (Matthew 10:34) One of the uses of a sword is to separate or divide. This is a prolific time of division and separation. Being on the Lord’s side requires unshakeable, strong, and active faith. No wavering. Jesus declared in Matthew 12:30, “He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad.” Neutrality is not an option for true believers. Our beliefs are being tested, and persecution is escalating. We must bravely take up our cross and follow Him. Endure and be fully committed to standing strong for Christ no matter what. “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13)
Deception
Being deeply grounded in the truth of God’s word gives us wisdom, insight, and discernment. The revealed knowledge of God in the bible shields us from deception. We are in an information-packed age. So much information is easily accessible via technology and mass media. There is a strong deception taking place and people are falling away from the truth. Sadly, many are being deceived by false doctrines. The bible warns in Matthew 24:11, “Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many.” It is imperative that we earnestly seek truth, study to show ourselves approved, and get sound doctrine to avoid spiritual deception. Even the elect if not careful can be tricked into believing a lie for the truth. (Matthew 24:24) Many are being deceived and are tragically perceiving darkness for light and are walking away from the faith.
Stand firm in the faith. Wholeheartedly follow Christ. Don’t get distracted by politics, arguments, and debate. Pray always. Pray for the lost. Pray for the found. Pray for our nation. Pray for our leaders but don’t put your confidence in them. God can use foolish things to confound the wise but ultimately our trust must be in God alone. “Do not put your trust in princes, nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help.” For those who have a saving faith have a sure hope and help in Jesus. Be intensely attentive to Him and trust in His sovereignty. We must stay close to Jesus so that we may be found worthy at His glorious return. “But as it is written: Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9) Be encouraged and keep your eyes fixed on Jesus; the most excellent view.
