There is an ominous feel about living in the world today (this very day). It’s not that there haven't been times like those we face now, but again, one senses the world is bracing itself for an uncertain time of much upheaval. And for what’s about to come, personally through to the more global, we have time now to reflect, ponder and prepare.
It also brings into view a set of cataclysmic circumstances that all people, especially Christians, should continually bear in mind.
There’s a time coming to us all that not one of us can avoid; a time of incredible turmoil and judgment. We daren’t not be in a position where God might say to us, “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm--neither hot nor cold--I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
–Revelation 3:15-16 (NIV).
We see here that a time of sifting comes; like with flour the impure carnal believer will be separated by their acts in the testing time--those found to be weak, idolatrous and disobedient at the crucial time. Daniel prophesied this:
“… armed forces will rise up to desecrate the temple fortress and will abolish the daily sacrifice. Then they will set up the abomination that causes desolation. With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him [the 'king of the North'].
“Those who are wise will instruct many, though for a time they will fall by the sword or be burned or captured or plundered. When they fall, they will receive a little help, and many who are not sincere will join them. Some of the wise will stumble, so that they may be refined, purified and made spotless until the time of the end, for it will still come at the appointed time.”
–Daniel 11:31-35 (TNIV).
There are many who will fall; and some will stumble momentarily. There will be second chances for the sincere. The truly wise will learn through their time of purification and refinement that it is only God we can act for and be subject to; there are no exceptions.
We see God standing at the door, requiring our obedience, even now:
“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with them, and they with me.”
–Revelation 3:19-20 (TNIV).
I recall being at a sermon once where the people there were implored to research the apocalyptic Scripture as a means of right and proper preparation for the end times; should we be doing that now?
Let us know and watch for the signs. We must become truly spiritual in preparation. There’s an inevitable storm coming, and its fury is unimaginable. Only the truly spiritual under God’s anointing, and in fellowship with him, will inevitably survive.
s
Copyright © 2009, S. J. Wickham. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
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