Troubled Times

Troubled Times

Matthew 24:5-14 (esv)

"See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ' I am the Christ, ' and they will lead many astray. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains."

"Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name 's sake. And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another. And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come."

In these verses we see 2 thoughts.

The first deals with signs. Signs of the end of the age.

The second deals with tribulation or tests.

Many read the signs of the end and are filled with fear.

There are 3 main causes of this fear.

1. Lack of focus on the security we have in Christ Jesus.

2. Lack of knowledge of what the end times are.

3. Unwillingness to endure the tests that might come our way.

There are obvious solutions to these causes of fear.

1. Study of the end times. When we study the end times we find encouragement from God. He continuously tells us He is with us to the end. His perfect love casts out fear. All we need to do is rest in His saving grace and know that all things work for good for those who love Him. 

2. Salvation. For those who are saved, there is security in Christ. No matter what the world tosses at us, nothing can take us from His hand. There is no need to fear.

3. God gives strength in time of need and in times of trial. We are given everything needed to endure any trial, no matter how great. When the time comes for you to be tested, remember the Lord is on your side. Focus on Him, give Him glory, and thank Him for all that comes your way. If we are obedient, we will march into trouble like conquerors! The Lord is our strength!

Don't let Troubled Times cause fear.

Rest in the Lord. He has saved us!

Study His Word. Knowledge of His Word gives direction.

Pray. Our flesh is weak! But He is strong. He will carry you!

Be obedient. If you are truly His, trouble will come. 

Be ready for battle! He has given you all that you need to conquer!

Matthew 28:20b (esv)

"And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."