That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.
1 Thessalonians 3:3
‘Don’t feel bad about our situation,’ Paul is saying. ‘Don’t be surprised to hear people are chasing us around Greece, throwing rocks at us, trying to destroy us. Appointments with trouble are already in our Daytimers. We told you this would happen. It’s all part of the program.’
‘Welcome this man,’ the Lord told Ananias concerning Paul, ‘for I’m going to show him he must suffer greatly for the sake of the Kingdom,’ (Acts 9:16). This prophecy, given at the very outset of Paul’s ministry, would indeed prove to be true.
‘Blessed be the Father of mercies, the God of comfort,’ Paul would later write to the Corinthians, ‘Who comforts us in our troubles that we may be able to comfort others with the comfort we ourselves have received,’ (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
A.W. Tozer was right when he said, ‘Before God can use a person greatly, He must allow that person to be hurt deeply.'
This isn’t because God is mean, but because He knows we can’t comfort others unless we’ve been comforted ourselves.
This Daily Devotional is an excerpt from the book "A Days Journey" by Pastor Jon. "A Days Journey" is a collection of 365 short devotions from the New Testament.
"The Christian Walk"
I know I have been out of pocket for a while, not writing much online. I have to apologize for that before I lay down my heart before you. Tonight in my quite time with the Lord, I have to say that He spoke to my heart. And here it is in my words, and I hope that you are blessed. I have felt as though I have been grieving the Spirit of God who lives in me. Often I am restless inside, and I am quick to just put it off as though it is because I am not trusting in the promises of God. Maybe sometimes, but I think often I am grieving Him because He is trying to guide me and I am wrestling with Him. I am resisting His guidance. In other words, I am being dis-obedient to God. Ignorance and procrastination are just not good enough excuses anymore.
I have to admit that in my quite time, God revealed to me that I often turn from spending time with Him, or serving Him, only to indulge in some sort of entertainment. Let's turn off the news, the sports, the video games, or even put up the fishing poles and pick up our bibles. Let us quit getting together for a movie, and let's have a bible study. Let us not go bowling this weekend and go evangelize. My brothers and sisters, I do not write this to you in order that I may bring you down, I write this unto you that you may be lifted up. That you may experience what your new life in Christ is to be centered on. You will never be happy as a Christian if you are not fulfilling your purpose; and that purpose is to be connected to God, worshiping Him and being a vessel by which He pours His Spirit into, giving you life and those around you. Do you want happiness? Peace? Know Him. Surrender your will over to Him and you will be lifted up. God gives grace unto those who are humble, but He opposes those who are proud. The choice is yours.
I want you to look at these definitions of "walk" and ask yourself: Am I walking in the Spirit, living for Christ? ...or am I walking in the flesh, living after the pleasures of this world?
In Scripture, to live and act or behave; to pursue a particular course of life.
To walk with God, to live in obedience to his commands, and have communion with him. Gen 5.
To walk in darkness, to live in ignorance, error and sin, without comfort. 1 John 1.
To walk in the light, to live int he practice of religion, and to enjoy its consolations. 1 John 1.
To walk by faith, to live in the firm belief of the gospel and its promises, and to rely on Christ for salvation. 2 Cor 5.
To walk through the fire, to be exercised with severe afflictions. Isa 43.
To walk after the flesh, to indulge sensual appetites, and to live in sin. Rom 8.
To walk after the Spirit, to be guided by the counsels and influences of the Spirit and by the word of God, and to live a life of holy deportment.
To walk in the flesh, to live this natural life, which is subject to infirmities and calamities. 2 Cor 10.
I have to admit that in my quite time, God revealed to me that I often turn from spending time with Him, or serving Him, only to indulge in some sort of entertainment. Let's turn off the news, the sports, the video games, or even put up the fishing poles and pick up our bibles. Let us quit getting together for a movie, and let's have a bible study. Let us not go bowling this weekend and go evangelize. My brothers and sisters, I do not write this to you in order that I may bring you down, I write this unto you that you may be lifted up. That you may experience what your new life in Christ is to be centered on. You will never be happy as a Christian if you are not fulfilling your purpose; and that purpose is to be connected to God, worshiping Him and being a vessel by which He pours His Spirit into, giving you life and those around you. Do you want happiness? Peace? Know Him. Surrender your will over to Him and you will be lifted up. God gives grace unto those who are humble, but He opposes those who are proud. The choice is yours.
I want you to look at these definitions of "walk" and ask yourself: Am I walking in the Spirit, living for Christ? ...or am I walking in the flesh, living after the pleasures of this world?
In Scripture, to live and act or behave; to pursue a particular course of life.
To walk with God, to live in obedience to his commands, and have communion with him. Gen 5.
To walk in darkness, to live in ignorance, error and sin, without comfort. 1 John 1.
To walk in the light, to live int he practice of religion, and to enjoy its consolations. 1 John 1.
To walk by faith, to live in the firm belief of the gospel and its promises, and to rely on Christ for salvation. 2 Cor 5.
To walk through the fire, to be exercised with severe afflictions. Isa 43.
To walk after the flesh, to indulge sensual appetites, and to live in sin. Rom 8.
To walk after the Spirit, to be guided by the counsels and influences of the Spirit and by the word of God, and to live a life of holy deportment.
To walk in the flesh, to live this natural life, which is subject to infirmities and calamities. 2 Cor 10.
“In The Last Days” By: Aaron Armstrong
For nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. 10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. 15 “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place, whoever reads, let him understand.” (Matthew 24:7)
1. Aliya- First we have what is called the “Aliya” or “gathering” of Israel back into their home land. (Ezek 28:25) “Thus says the Lord God: When I gather the house of Israel from the peoples among whom they are scattered, and manifest my holiness in them in the sight of the nations, then they shall settle on their own soil that I gave to my servant Jacob.” This particular prophesy has been taking place for a while now, and continues to take place as Jews continuously, before our eyes, return to the land of Israel.
2. On May 15, 1948 the nation of Israel was established and recognized. One thing we know for sure is that God can not lie, and that is what makes prophesy so unique. Every Word shall come to pass. God has put His stamp of approval upon the Word of God; He even holds His Word above His name. With this stern promise, we can lean upon prophesy as our cane, a cane which supports us, holds us up, as we walk through these “Last Days.” Now that Israel is established, many of the other prophesy’s can be fulfilled, like the one where Israel is a burden to all the other countries.
3. “For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows.” [Mark 13:8] It seems to be that these will be the kick off of many sorrows in the Last Days. Watching the news on the television, we can see these events are rapidly growing and taking place in the world today.
4. “For nations shall rise against nations”- with my understanding, it sounds like more of a world-wide war here in this text, rather than a battle for some territorial rights between two nations. In the year 1914, the World Wars began and did not get resolved, so to speak, until the end of World War II in 1945. But then you have the Cold War which lasted from the mid 1940s until the 1990s. Nevertheless, the world is not going to be content with each other until the Anti-Christ comes in with a Peace Plan, and then there is only about three and half to seven years before the reign of Christ; then and only then will there be an everlasting peace.
5. Earthquakes- It is not that earthquakes are scary in and of them self; it is where the earthquakes take place that is so scary. (San Francisco is a good example). Many major cities have been found to be established on top of major fault lines. If an earthquake happened out in the middle of nowhere, it would not get the attention of the people. But when an earthquake destroys cities or even takes many lives, then people begin to wonder why all these horrible things are happening. The text also mentions that they will be in various places, and we are seeing earthquakes today all over the world! God, in the history of mankind, has used nature to get the attention of the people in hopes that they will repent from their wickedness and turn to Him. He is the One who has all the answers to life’s most difficult questions. It is a good thing when people are stirred up with questions that they don’t have the answers to; it is like their hearts are being tilled up for the seed to be planted.
6. Famines- If we spend five minutes on the television, we will see that there is a widespread of famines across the world. One of the major issues in politics is global warming, and the main thing this effects is famine, due to the climate changes. Since famines have been taking place throughout all of history, we must assume that He was talking about an increase in famine, like that never seen before, or else it would not have much significance. Famines in the these last days could also turn a little violent. What would happen if a major country like that of China, Japan, or Russia were to have a devastating famine? Could they go hunting for food by preying upon other smaller countries? That is what happens in the animal kingdom. When a dominated country lacks food supply, they will turn to attack another weaker vessel. Current News: Right now we are looking at some major climate change in: Africa and South Asia, who could face famines. Brooklyn, Canada, Feb 1 (IPS) - Climate change will cause major disruptions in the global food system, and adaptation to those changes needs to begin immediately, experts say. Otherwise one-fifth of the world's population could starve and millions of others become climate refugees, forced by heat and drought to abandon their lands and hunt for food elsewhere in the coming decades. To prevent this nightmarish future, researcher David Lobell says the world community should focus its efforts where climate threats are likely to make the greatest impacts. [By: Stephen Leahy]
7. Wars and Rumors of Wars- “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” [Matthew 24:6] Although there have been wars throughout all of time, it seems here that Jesus was speaking of wars all over the world, and with the emphasis added, “See that you are not troubled,” leads me to believe that it will be a little more scary than the other wars. Maybe it will be times when it looks like the world is going to end, as a result of the wars going on. With the nuclear weapons that are in the hands of many different countries around the world, rumors of wars are scarier than ever. Now many people are troubled today with the fear of global annihilation. All I have to say to them is this, “Let not your heart be troubled, for the end is not yet, these things must come to past first.” Global peace that takes care of these wars is what the world is currently looking for. This peace plan will probably kick off the downward spiral of ending events, because it will usher in the need of the Anti-Christ, who will seem to have all the answers.
8. Pestilence- (Luke 21:11) “There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.” According to the Webster’s Dictionary, the word pestilence means: 1: a contagious or infectious epidemic disease that is virulent and devastating; 2: something that is destructive or pernicious. If you look at the vast number of diseases now days, the numbers are shocking. According to UCLA School of Public Health / Department of Epidemiology Instructors: Layne / Fall 2008, there are over fifty seven worldwide deaths per year due to diseases.
9. Perilous Times will come- “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come;” [2 Timothy 3:1] Paul goes on to describe the attributes or “character traits” of the state of man in this particular set of time. The list is stunningly shocking when you compare these traits to those in the world today. If you are old enough to remember the early 1900s, than you can clearly see this dramatic inclination of evil in the world and it’s tolerance among civilization. The church must take heed to Paul’s warning here, seeing that it is clearly directed to us. What did he say to do, “…from such turn away.” II Timothy 4:5
10. False Christ’s- For false christ’s and false prophets will rise and show
great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. [Matthew 24:4] Wikipedia has listed 720 people who have actually claimed to be the Messiah, directly, or indirectly by their followers. It is clearly evident that people in this day in age have no real knowledge of God, nor any fear. In Orlando FL, there was a big rally with millions of people who came to see some guy that was claiming to be the Messiah, who was declaring peace and prosperity. The people had the number 666 written on their shirts and tattooed on their body. This world is prepared to receive the anti-Christ with open arms, as well as take the mark of the beast. Good news to the Christian: it won’t happen until we are gone! Let us warn those to who are in our path, and let us keep our eyes in heaven awaiting His return! Amen.
11. False Prophets- in the Bible, the false prophets were those who perverted the word of God and /or the Gospel. “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed.” [Galatians 1:8] In a literal sense, anyone who preaches any other doctrine pertaining to eternal life other than through faith in Jesus Christ, are to be considered false prophets. Also note the emphasis here, “Let them be accursed.” They seem to receive a stricter judgment. One thing is true, and that is the fact that God has given man free-will to do that which he pleases, but when they attack His Word or His children, He takes the matters very serious. To the nation of Israel He said, “I will bless them that bless thee, and I will curse them that curse thee.” And in this text to the Galatians, Paul clearly tells us that those who pervert the Gospel of Jesus Christ will be accursed.
12. Rebuilding of the Temple- “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place, whoever reads, let him understand.” In order for this to take place; the Israelites must first have a temple for this guy to commit this abomination. Well with all the Israelites back in Israel in 1948, they were excited to start their plans for the rebuilding of the temple. In 1967 however, the Arabs recaptured the Temple Mount, and the Jewish nation wept. Right now the Israelites are looking for some help gaining back this sacred Temple Mount. What a perfect opportunity for the Anti-Christ to step in with a plan and deceive the Israelites with a plan to regain control and rebuild. This could happen at any time, and it is uncertain whether the Rapture will be before or after this event.
13. Israel will become a cup of trembling, and a burden to all nations. “Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round about, when they shall be in the siege both against Judah and against Jerusalem. And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it.” [Zechariah 12:2-3] The nation of Israel has been in and out of affliction their whole life. Even if you have never met a Jew, if you have any heart at all, it has to go out to the people of this nation. They have suffered as a whole, more than any other nation or “peoples group” in the history of mankind. They have fought against all odds, and the God of the Heavens has been there to see that they remain. One day the nations will rise up against Israel, thinking they have a sure victory. Nevertheless, God will protect her with His outstretched arm, and all the nations will fear and tremble at the Almighty God of Israel.
14. The Burden- His promise to them was that though they may be scattered amongst the nations, they would not be utterly wiped out. He was faithful to His promise and like a hen gathers her chicks, so has the Heavenly Father begun to gather His children of Israel back into their homeland. However, their troubles are not over. One day in the future, as Zechariah prophesied, all nations will be gathered against her to wipe her out. Little by little the nation of Israel is dropping alliances. Soon they will be left alone, forsaken by her companions and will have to turn to the Lord their God for help. If you know the nation of Israel in its current spiritual state, you will find it most shocking. Tel Aviv, the Capital of Israel, is known for being the most homo-sexual city in the world. Certainly the fear of the Lord is not in a lot of them, and maybe it will take a scare like that of the nations rising up against her, that she will find repentance.
15. The great apostasy or falling away- (2 Th. 2:3; Matt.24:10) “Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition.” The people Paul was writing to here needed some truth straightened out concerning the time when they would be gathered unto Jesus Christ. They had received false news, probably from a false prophet or teacher, which got them worrying as if they missed out on the gathering of the Church unto Christ. The day here Paul is talking about is the actual “Second Coming of Jesus Christ.” There will be a time when the Church takes a big plunge in the wrong direction: morally, spiritually, and though it is sad but true, many in the church will actually fall away from the truth of the Gospel. Take a look at all the different routes, major (or minor) denominations, have taken in the last 100 years, 50 years, or 10 years. It is shocking what pastors are professing behind the pulpits and on the news. Many are watering down the Gospel of Christ. Many are trying to chip away at the narrow gate in order to make it a little wider. It sounds like this falling away that Paul is talking about is going to be big, something different from the previous history of the Church. My friend, we are in a great falling away right now. Therefore, I urge you brothers and sisters in the Lord, to cling unto the Lord in these last days. Search the scriptures for yourself, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you read the Word, and put your trust in Him. The best way to not be deceived is to go straight to the Lord Himself, open up the Bible, and trust Him. And when you know the Lord, then go seek a church that bears the same fruit as you. Amen
16. Mourning for the One They Pierced- “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.” Here is a beautiful picture of a future day (time or period) when the Lord Jesus will be recognized as the Jewish Messiah. The Jews right now do not believe that Jesus is the Messiah, unless they are Messianic Jews. So here we get some insight of the Jews future encounter with their beloved Messiah, the One they crucified, the One whom still loves them oh so dearly. This very well might be the day where Jesus walks through the Eastern Gate and sets Himself up as King over all the Earth. What a beautiful picture of grace here: the One whom they pierced has come back, and now pours His Spirit of grace and supplication out over the ones who rejected Him for over 2,000 years. It will be a day with much tears, but I believe He will wipe every tear away, and then we will all worship the Worthy Lamb of God as one Body, both Jews and Gentiles.
17. The Man of Sin Revealed- (2 Th. 2:3) “And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days.” Perhaps will be the center and turning point of the Great Tribulation. First there will be three and a half years of peace, perhaps beginning with the absence of Christians due to the Rapture. Some often think that the Church should bring peace into the world. This is not so, in the sense of the whole world reaping some kind of physical peace from the Church. The Lord Himself declared that He did not come to bring peace, but a sword. The Church is the Light that shines in the darkness, and the darkness never enjoys the presence of light. With the Church gone, the world can peacefully follow their own patters; without the conflict of Christianity.
18. The Jews will be delivered up and killed- (Matt.24:9) “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you…” Some teach that this text is speaking of the persecution of His disciples, or Christians in general. Although this is true, what He is speaking of is a massive persecution of the Jews during the tribulation. The Anti-Christ will turn on the Jews, and many will be killed, except the remnant of Jews to whom God has sealed (144,000). Once the Anti-Christ sets himself up in the temple, the Jews are heavily warned by Jesus to flee to the mountains (Petra), where they will be preserved through the Great Tribulation for 3 ½ years.
19. Lawlessness will increase- (Matt.24:12) “And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.” Lawlessness is simply the absence of God in a society. It is impossible to have a non-corrupt Godless society. God, through the Holy Spirit, is what holds this economy together, who keeps us from utterly destroying ourselves, and who brings goodness to a dark world. But this world is doing all that it can to remove God out of the picture. The world rejects God because it is evil, and it wants to remain evil. People do not want the presence of God because, in the presence of God the truth is revealed, that is, their evil deeds are exposed. Here are two unfailing spiritual laws of God that coincide: 1. God is love, and if you know not God than you do not know love; 2. In Him there is no darkness. Therefore we conclude that if you remove God, you remove love.
20. Lovers of themselves- (II Timothy 3:1-5) “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” Here the text shows us many things pertaining to the degrading of morals as well as the increase of selfishness in the last days. All of these character traits that Paul list here are all rooted and grounded from a life of self. If you look around the world, all of the so called wise psychologists say that the root of a healthy life is to first love yourself. You hear things like, “If you can’t love yourself, than who can you love.” We have become the center of our own universe. The true reason why people never find a quench for their thirst is because Jesus is the only One who can satisfy it. I think what Paul was saying was that in the end of days, which we are evidently in; men will become their own gods.
21. New World Order- In order to usher in the Anti-Christ, where the whole world receives Him, or at least the dominating powers, there will have to be sort of a stage set up for him. Here is what I think. The world is going to be struggling with a major world-wide crisis in which it cannot resolve on its own. There is going to be much hostility between the nations due to this, and the world is going to be longing for peace. Then out of nowhere a man will rise up, who has the countenance of a lamb, meaning he will appear to be an innocent man, whom people adore, and have a mouth like that of a dragon, meaning he will speak boldly and authoritively. “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke as a dragon.” (Revelation 13:11) This man will be exactly what the world is looking for, and he will seem to be wise in his plans of reformation. Then after he is set up, he will turn and demand worship of himself.
22. Mark of the Beast- (Revelation 13:17) He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name. The mark of the beast connects perfectly with the New World Order that the Anti-Christ will try to establish. Everyone who receives this mark will have the rights of normal citizenship, such as: buying and selling goods. Whoever does not receive the mark, not only will it be hard to find food, but they will be hunted down and killed for rejecting the mark. The mark will be one of the acts of worship demanded by the beast. Many have made different suggestions concerning the identity of this mark. Although we know where it will be, we do not know what it will be. The mark will be located on the right hand, or the forehead. Two different suggestions that are likely to be it are either a tattoo of some sort or a chip implanted under the skin. The technology for these chips is already being experimented. This would allow the beast to locate everyone, as well as control the buying and selling of all goods; and if you do not have the chip, than you will not be able to check out.
23. Re-gaining the Temple Mount- In order for the Temple to be re-built, which must take place before the Abomination of Desolation, the Jews will have to work something out with the Arabs who have possession of the Temple Mount. The Temple Mount is the location where the Temple used to be, and they will not build the Temple anywhere else. The Jews today are longing to have their Temple built, and they will not rest until it happens. To the Jews, the Temple must be up and going in order for their worship to God be complete; where they can offer up sacrifices, and go through their rituals. It will be interesting to see what happens in our lifetime with this situation with the Temple. I think it might become a problem as the Jews zealously desire to have their land back and the Temple built.
24. Armageddon- (Revelation 16:14, 16) “14 For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 16 And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon.” When the time is come, these demons will be let loose to go and gather up the kings of the earth for the battle of the Great Day. Here is where all nations will fall by the sword that comes forth out of the mouth of Jesus Christ. The battle will be so great that blood will be up to the horses bridle spread over 200 miles.
25. Millennial Reign of Christ- for 1000 years, Jesus will reign on this earth and bring restoration to all that has been destroyed by the works of Satan and man. His Saints will be with Him, and they will carry out His commands throughout all the earth. In the ministry of Jesus, He often taught on the importance of what we do in this life. Perhaps, with what we are faithful with in this life will determine what will be given to us when He comes back to reign for 1000 years. To those who are faithful with the small things, him it will be given more. He who is not faithful with what the Lord has given him, even it shall be taken away. Nevertheless, whether or not you are given much, you will be full of joy just to be in the presence of the Lord. Let this mind be in you: that those who are least in this life will be called greatest in Heaven, and those who are great in this life will be called the least in Heaven. I think, that those tears which Jesus will wipe away, will be the tears of those who wish they would have done more for the Lamb who is so worthy. Whatever the tears are from, they will be wiped away with the precious Hand of God.
1. Aliya- First we have what is called the “Aliya” or “gathering” of Israel back into their home land. (Ezek 28:25) “Thus says the Lord God: When I gather the house of Israel from the peoples among whom they are scattered, and manifest my holiness in them in the sight of the nations, then they shall settle on their own soil that I gave to my servant Jacob.” This particular prophesy has been taking place for a while now, and continues to take place as Jews continuously, before our eyes, return to the land of Israel.
2. On May 15, 1948 the nation of Israel was established and recognized. One thing we know for sure is that God can not lie, and that is what makes prophesy so unique. Every Word shall come to pass. God has put His stamp of approval upon the Word of God; He even holds His Word above His name. With this stern promise, we can lean upon prophesy as our cane, a cane which supports us, holds us up, as we walk through these “Last Days.” Now that Israel is established, many of the other prophesy’s can be fulfilled, like the one where Israel is a burden to all the other countries.
3. “For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows.” [Mark 13:8] It seems to be that these will be the kick off of many sorrows in the Last Days. Watching the news on the television, we can see these events are rapidly growing and taking place in the world today.
4. “For nations shall rise against nations”- with my understanding, it sounds like more of a world-wide war here in this text, rather than a battle for some territorial rights between two nations. In the year 1914, the World Wars began and did not get resolved, so to speak, until the end of World War II in 1945. But then you have the Cold War which lasted from the mid 1940s until the 1990s. Nevertheless, the world is not going to be content with each other until the Anti-Christ comes in with a Peace Plan, and then there is only about three and half to seven years before the reign of Christ; then and only then will there be an everlasting peace.
5. Earthquakes- It is not that earthquakes are scary in and of them self; it is where the earthquakes take place that is so scary. (San Francisco is a good example). Many major cities have been found to be established on top of major fault lines. If an earthquake happened out in the middle of nowhere, it would not get the attention of the people. But when an earthquake destroys cities or even takes many lives, then people begin to wonder why all these horrible things are happening. The text also mentions that they will be in various places, and we are seeing earthquakes today all over the world! God, in the history of mankind, has used nature to get the attention of the people in hopes that they will repent from their wickedness and turn to Him. He is the One who has all the answers to life’s most difficult questions. It is a good thing when people are stirred up with questions that they don’t have the answers to; it is like their hearts are being tilled up for the seed to be planted.
6. Famines- If we spend five minutes on the television, we will see that there is a widespread of famines across the world. One of the major issues in politics is global warming, and the main thing this effects is famine, due to the climate changes. Since famines have been taking place throughout all of history, we must assume that He was talking about an increase in famine, like that never seen before, or else it would not have much significance. Famines in the these last days could also turn a little violent. What would happen if a major country like that of China, Japan, or Russia were to have a devastating famine? Could they go hunting for food by preying upon other smaller countries? That is what happens in the animal kingdom. When a dominated country lacks food supply, they will turn to attack another weaker vessel. Current News: Right now we are looking at some major climate change in: Africa and South Asia, who could face famines. Brooklyn, Canada, Feb 1 (IPS) - Climate change will cause major disruptions in the global food system, and adaptation to those changes needs to begin immediately, experts say. Otherwise one-fifth of the world's population could starve and millions of others become climate refugees, forced by heat and drought to abandon their lands and hunt for food elsewhere in the coming decades. To prevent this nightmarish future, researcher David Lobell says the world community should focus its efforts where climate threats are likely to make the greatest impacts. [By: Stephen Leahy]
7. Wars and Rumors of Wars- “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” [Matthew 24:6] Although there have been wars throughout all of time, it seems here that Jesus was speaking of wars all over the world, and with the emphasis added, “See that you are not troubled,” leads me to believe that it will be a little more scary than the other wars. Maybe it will be times when it looks like the world is going to end, as a result of the wars going on. With the nuclear weapons that are in the hands of many different countries around the world, rumors of wars are scarier than ever. Now many people are troubled today with the fear of global annihilation. All I have to say to them is this, “Let not your heart be troubled, for the end is not yet, these things must come to past first.” Global peace that takes care of these wars is what the world is currently looking for. This peace plan will probably kick off the downward spiral of ending events, because it will usher in the need of the Anti-Christ, who will seem to have all the answers.
8. Pestilence- (Luke 21:11) “There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.” According to the Webster’s Dictionary, the word pestilence means: 1: a contagious or infectious epidemic disease that is virulent and devastating; 2: something that is destructive or pernicious. If you look at the vast number of diseases now days, the numbers are shocking. According to UCLA School of Public Health / Department of Epidemiology Instructors: Layne / Fall 2008, there are over fifty seven worldwide deaths per year due to diseases.
9. Perilous Times will come- “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come;” [2 Timothy 3:1] Paul goes on to describe the attributes or “character traits” of the state of man in this particular set of time. The list is stunningly shocking when you compare these traits to those in the world today. If you are old enough to remember the early 1900s, than you can clearly see this dramatic inclination of evil in the world and it’s tolerance among civilization. The church must take heed to Paul’s warning here, seeing that it is clearly directed to us. What did he say to do, “…from such turn away.” II Timothy 4:5
10. False Christ’s- For false christ’s and false prophets will rise and show
great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. [Matthew 24:4] Wikipedia has listed 720 people who have actually claimed to be the Messiah, directly, or indirectly by their followers. It is clearly evident that people in this day in age have no real knowledge of God, nor any fear. In Orlando FL, there was a big rally with millions of people who came to see some guy that was claiming to be the Messiah, who was declaring peace and prosperity. The people had the number 666 written on their shirts and tattooed on their body. This world is prepared to receive the anti-Christ with open arms, as well as take the mark of the beast. Good news to the Christian: it won’t happen until we are gone! Let us warn those to who are in our path, and let us keep our eyes in heaven awaiting His return! Amen.
11. False Prophets- in the Bible, the false prophets were those who perverted the word of God and /or the Gospel. “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed.” [Galatians 1:8] In a literal sense, anyone who preaches any other doctrine pertaining to eternal life other than through faith in Jesus Christ, are to be considered false prophets. Also note the emphasis here, “Let them be accursed.” They seem to receive a stricter judgment. One thing is true, and that is the fact that God has given man free-will to do that which he pleases, but when they attack His Word or His children, He takes the matters very serious. To the nation of Israel He said, “I will bless them that bless thee, and I will curse them that curse thee.” And in this text to the Galatians, Paul clearly tells us that those who pervert the Gospel of Jesus Christ will be accursed.
12. Rebuilding of the Temple- “Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place, whoever reads, let him understand.” In order for this to take place; the Israelites must first have a temple for this guy to commit this abomination. Well with all the Israelites back in Israel in 1948, they were excited to start their plans for the rebuilding of the temple. In 1967 however, the Arabs recaptured the Temple Mount, and the Jewish nation wept. Right now the Israelites are looking for some help gaining back this sacred Temple Mount. What a perfect opportunity for the Anti-Christ to step in with a plan and deceive the Israelites with a plan to regain control and rebuild. This could happen at any time, and it is uncertain whether the Rapture will be before or after this event.
13. Israel will become a cup of trembling, and a burden to all nations. “Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round about, when they shall be in the siege both against Judah and against Jerusalem. And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it.” [Zechariah 12:2-3] The nation of Israel has been in and out of affliction their whole life. Even if you have never met a Jew, if you have any heart at all, it has to go out to the people of this nation. They have suffered as a whole, more than any other nation or “peoples group” in the history of mankind. They have fought against all odds, and the God of the Heavens has been there to see that they remain. One day the nations will rise up against Israel, thinking they have a sure victory. Nevertheless, God will protect her with His outstretched arm, and all the nations will fear and tremble at the Almighty God of Israel.
14. The Burden- His promise to them was that though they may be scattered amongst the nations, they would not be utterly wiped out. He was faithful to His promise and like a hen gathers her chicks, so has the Heavenly Father begun to gather His children of Israel back into their homeland. However, their troubles are not over. One day in the future, as Zechariah prophesied, all nations will be gathered against her to wipe her out. Little by little the nation of Israel is dropping alliances. Soon they will be left alone, forsaken by her companions and will have to turn to the Lord their God for help. If you know the nation of Israel in its current spiritual state, you will find it most shocking. Tel Aviv, the Capital of Israel, is known for being the most homo-sexual city in the world. Certainly the fear of the Lord is not in a lot of them, and maybe it will take a scare like that of the nations rising up against her, that she will find repentance.
15. The great apostasy or falling away- (2 Th. 2:3; Matt.24:10) “Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition.” The people Paul was writing to here needed some truth straightened out concerning the time when they would be gathered unto Jesus Christ. They had received false news, probably from a false prophet or teacher, which got them worrying as if they missed out on the gathering of the Church unto Christ. The day here Paul is talking about is the actual “Second Coming of Jesus Christ.” There will be a time when the Church takes a big plunge in the wrong direction: morally, spiritually, and though it is sad but true, many in the church will actually fall away from the truth of the Gospel. Take a look at all the different routes, major (or minor) denominations, have taken in the last 100 years, 50 years, or 10 years. It is shocking what pastors are professing behind the pulpits and on the news. Many are watering down the Gospel of Christ. Many are trying to chip away at the narrow gate in order to make it a little wider. It sounds like this falling away that Paul is talking about is going to be big, something different from the previous history of the Church. My friend, we are in a great falling away right now. Therefore, I urge you brothers and sisters in the Lord, to cling unto the Lord in these last days. Search the scriptures for yourself, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you read the Word, and put your trust in Him. The best way to not be deceived is to go straight to the Lord Himself, open up the Bible, and trust Him. And when you know the Lord, then go seek a church that bears the same fruit as you. Amen
16. Mourning for the One They Pierced- “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.” Here is a beautiful picture of a future day (time or period) when the Lord Jesus will be recognized as the Jewish Messiah. The Jews right now do not believe that Jesus is the Messiah, unless they are Messianic Jews. So here we get some insight of the Jews future encounter with their beloved Messiah, the One they crucified, the One whom still loves them oh so dearly. This very well might be the day where Jesus walks through the Eastern Gate and sets Himself up as King over all the Earth. What a beautiful picture of grace here: the One whom they pierced has come back, and now pours His Spirit of grace and supplication out over the ones who rejected Him for over 2,000 years. It will be a day with much tears, but I believe He will wipe every tear away, and then we will all worship the Worthy Lamb of God as one Body, both Jews and Gentiles.
17. The Man of Sin Revealed- (2 Th. 2:3) “And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days.” Perhaps will be the center and turning point of the Great Tribulation. First there will be three and a half years of peace, perhaps beginning with the absence of Christians due to the Rapture. Some often think that the Church should bring peace into the world. This is not so, in the sense of the whole world reaping some kind of physical peace from the Church. The Lord Himself declared that He did not come to bring peace, but a sword. The Church is the Light that shines in the darkness, and the darkness never enjoys the presence of light. With the Church gone, the world can peacefully follow their own patters; without the conflict of Christianity.
18. The Jews will be delivered up and killed- (Matt.24:9) “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you…” Some teach that this text is speaking of the persecution of His disciples, or Christians in general. Although this is true, what He is speaking of is a massive persecution of the Jews during the tribulation. The Anti-Christ will turn on the Jews, and many will be killed, except the remnant of Jews to whom God has sealed (144,000). Once the Anti-Christ sets himself up in the temple, the Jews are heavily warned by Jesus to flee to the mountains (Petra), where they will be preserved through the Great Tribulation for 3 ½ years.
19. Lawlessness will increase- (Matt.24:12) “And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.” Lawlessness is simply the absence of God in a society. It is impossible to have a non-corrupt Godless society. God, through the Holy Spirit, is what holds this economy together, who keeps us from utterly destroying ourselves, and who brings goodness to a dark world. But this world is doing all that it can to remove God out of the picture. The world rejects God because it is evil, and it wants to remain evil. People do not want the presence of God because, in the presence of God the truth is revealed, that is, their evil deeds are exposed. Here are two unfailing spiritual laws of God that coincide: 1. God is love, and if you know not God than you do not know love; 2. In Him there is no darkness. Therefore we conclude that if you remove God, you remove love.
20. Lovers of themselves- (II Timothy 3:1-5) “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” Here the text shows us many things pertaining to the degrading of morals as well as the increase of selfishness in the last days. All of these character traits that Paul list here are all rooted and grounded from a life of self. If you look around the world, all of the so called wise psychologists say that the root of a healthy life is to first love yourself. You hear things like, “If you can’t love yourself, than who can you love.” We have become the center of our own universe. The true reason why people never find a quench for their thirst is because Jesus is the only One who can satisfy it. I think what Paul was saying was that in the end of days, which we are evidently in; men will become their own gods.
21. New World Order- In order to usher in the Anti-Christ, where the whole world receives Him, or at least the dominating powers, there will have to be sort of a stage set up for him. Here is what I think. The world is going to be struggling with a major world-wide crisis in which it cannot resolve on its own. There is going to be much hostility between the nations due to this, and the world is going to be longing for peace. Then out of nowhere a man will rise up, who has the countenance of a lamb, meaning he will appear to be an innocent man, whom people adore, and have a mouth like that of a dragon, meaning he will speak boldly and authoritively. “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke as a dragon.” (Revelation 13:11) This man will be exactly what the world is looking for, and he will seem to be wise in his plans of reformation. Then after he is set up, he will turn and demand worship of himself.
22. Mark of the Beast- (Revelation 13:17) He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name. The mark of the beast connects perfectly with the New World Order that the Anti-Christ will try to establish. Everyone who receives this mark will have the rights of normal citizenship, such as: buying and selling goods. Whoever does not receive the mark, not only will it be hard to find food, but they will be hunted down and killed for rejecting the mark. The mark will be one of the acts of worship demanded by the beast. Many have made different suggestions concerning the identity of this mark. Although we know where it will be, we do not know what it will be. The mark will be located on the right hand, or the forehead. Two different suggestions that are likely to be it are either a tattoo of some sort or a chip implanted under the skin. The technology for these chips is already being experimented. This would allow the beast to locate everyone, as well as control the buying and selling of all goods; and if you do not have the chip, than you will not be able to check out.
23. Re-gaining the Temple Mount- In order for the Temple to be re-built, which must take place before the Abomination of Desolation, the Jews will have to work something out with the Arabs who have possession of the Temple Mount. The Temple Mount is the location where the Temple used to be, and they will not build the Temple anywhere else. The Jews today are longing to have their Temple built, and they will not rest until it happens. To the Jews, the Temple must be up and going in order for their worship to God be complete; where they can offer up sacrifices, and go through their rituals. It will be interesting to see what happens in our lifetime with this situation with the Temple. I think it might become a problem as the Jews zealously desire to have their land back and the Temple built.
24. Armageddon- (Revelation 16:14, 16) “14 For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 16 And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon.” When the time is come, these demons will be let loose to go and gather up the kings of the earth for the battle of the Great Day. Here is where all nations will fall by the sword that comes forth out of the mouth of Jesus Christ. The battle will be so great that blood will be up to the horses bridle spread over 200 miles.
25. Millennial Reign of Christ- for 1000 years, Jesus will reign on this earth and bring restoration to all that has been destroyed by the works of Satan and man. His Saints will be with Him, and they will carry out His commands throughout all the earth. In the ministry of Jesus, He often taught on the importance of what we do in this life. Perhaps, with what we are faithful with in this life will determine what will be given to us when He comes back to reign for 1000 years. To those who are faithful with the small things, him it will be given more. He who is not faithful with what the Lord has given him, even it shall be taken away. Nevertheless, whether or not you are given much, you will be full of joy just to be in the presence of the Lord. Let this mind be in you: that those who are least in this life will be called greatest in Heaven, and those who are great in this life will be called the least in Heaven. I think, that those tears which Jesus will wipe away, will be the tears of those who wish they would have done more for the Lamb who is so worthy. Whatever the tears are from, they will be wiped away with the precious Hand of God.
What can satisfy my heart?
"It is neither knowledge nor prophecy that can satisfy the heart; but the thought that Jesus is coming to take me to Himself is the blessed hope of one who is atached to Him by grace." -J.N. Darby
"The root of all virtue and grace"
The root of all virtue and grace-of all faith and acceptable worship-is that we know that we have nothing but what we recieve, and we bow in deepest humility to wait upon God for it. -Andrew Murray-
What Our Forefathers Believed
Did you know that 52 of the 55 signers of the Declaration of
Independence were orthodox, deeply committed Christians?
The other three all believed in the Bible as the divine truth, the
God of scripture, and His personal intervention.
It is the same Congress that formed the American Bible Society. Immediately after
creating the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress voted to purchase
and import 20,000 copies of scripture for the people of this nation.
Patrick Henry, who is called the firebrand of the American Revolution, is still
remembered for his words, "Give me liberty or give me death." But in current textbooks the context of these words is deleted. Here is what he actually said: "An appeal to arms and the God of hosts is all that is left us. But we shall not fight our battle alone. There is a just God that presides over the destinies of nations. The battle sir, is not to the strong alone. Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it almighty God. I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death."
These sentences have been erased from our textbooks. Was Patrick Henry a Christian?
The following year, 1776, he wrote this "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too
often that this great Nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For that reason alone, people of other faiths have been afforded freedom of worship here."
Consider these words that Thomas Jefferson wrote on the front of his well-worn Bible: "I am a real Christian, that is to say, a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus. I have little doubt that our whole country will soon be rallied to the unity of our Creator." He was also the chairman of the American Bible Society, which he considered his highest and most important role.
On July 4, 1821, President Adams said, "The highest glory of the American Revolution
was this: it connected in one indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity."
Calvin Coolidge, our 30th President of the United States reaffirmed this truth when he wrote, "The foundations of our society and our government rest so much on the
teachings of the Bible that it would be difficult to support them if faith in these teachings would cease to be practically universal in our country."
In 1782, the United States Congress voted this resolution: "The Congress of the UnitedStates recommends and approves the Holy Bible for use in all schools."
William Holmes McGuffey is the author of the McGuffey Reader, which was used for
over 100 years in our public schools with over 125 million copies sold until it was
stopped in 1963. President Lincoln called him the "Schoolmaster of the Nation."
Listen to these words of Mr. McGuffey: "The Christian religion is the religion of our country. From it are derived our notions on the character of God, on the great moral Governor of the universe. On its doctrines are founded the peculiarities of our free institutions. From no source has the author drawn more conspicuously
than from the sacred Scriptures. From all these extracts from the Bible I
make no apology."
Of the first 108 universities founded in America, 106 were distinctly Christian, including the first, Harvard University, chartered in 1636. In the original Harvard Student Handbook, rule number 1 was that students seeking entrance must know Latin and Greek so that they could study the scriptures: "Let every student be plainly instructed and earnestly pressed to consider well, the main end of his life and studies is, to know God and Jesus Christ, which is eternal life, John 17:3; and therefore to lay Jesus Christ as the only foundation for our children to follow the moral principles of the Ten Commandments.
James Madison, the primary author of the Constitution of the United States, said this: "We have staked the whole future of our new nation not upon the power of
government; far from it. We have staked the future of all our political
constitutions upon the capacity of each of ourselves to govern ourselves
according to the moral principles of the Ten Commandments."
We ask God to bless America. But, how can He bless a Nation that has departed so far
from Him? Prior to September 11, He was not welcome in America. Most of what you
read in this article has been erased from our textbooks. Revisionists have rewritten
history to remove the truth about our country's Christian roots.
Independence were orthodox, deeply committed Christians?
The other three all believed in the Bible as the divine truth, the
God of scripture, and His personal intervention.
It is the same Congress that formed the American Bible Society. Immediately after
creating the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress voted to purchase
and import 20,000 copies of scripture for the people of this nation.
Patrick Henry, who is called the firebrand of the American Revolution, is still
remembered for his words, "Give me liberty or give me death." But in current textbooks the context of these words is deleted. Here is what he actually said: "An appeal to arms and the God of hosts is all that is left us. But we shall not fight our battle alone. There is a just God that presides over the destinies of nations. The battle sir, is not to the strong alone. Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it almighty God. I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death."
These sentences have been erased from our textbooks. Was Patrick Henry a Christian?
The following year, 1776, he wrote this "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too
often that this great Nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For that reason alone, people of other faiths have been afforded freedom of worship here."
Consider these words that Thomas Jefferson wrote on the front of his well-worn Bible: "I am a real Christian, that is to say, a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus. I have little doubt that our whole country will soon be rallied to the unity of our Creator." He was also the chairman of the American Bible Society, which he considered his highest and most important role.
On July 4, 1821, President Adams said, "The highest glory of the American Revolution
was this: it connected in one indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity."
Calvin Coolidge, our 30th President of the United States reaffirmed this truth when he wrote, "The foundations of our society and our government rest so much on the
teachings of the Bible that it would be difficult to support them if faith in these teachings would cease to be practically universal in our country."
In 1782, the United States Congress voted this resolution: "The Congress of the UnitedStates recommends and approves the Holy Bible for use in all schools."
William Holmes McGuffey is the author of the McGuffey Reader, which was used for
over 100 years in our public schools with over 125 million copies sold until it was
stopped in 1963. President Lincoln called him the "Schoolmaster of the Nation."
Listen to these words of Mr. McGuffey: "The Christian religion is the religion of our country. From it are derived our notions on the character of God, on the great moral Governor of the universe. On its doctrines are founded the peculiarities of our free institutions. From no source has the author drawn more conspicuously
than from the sacred Scriptures. From all these extracts from the Bible I
make no apology."
Of the first 108 universities founded in America, 106 were distinctly Christian, including the first, Harvard University, chartered in 1636. In the original Harvard Student Handbook, rule number 1 was that students seeking entrance must know Latin and Greek so that they could study the scriptures: "Let every student be plainly instructed and earnestly pressed to consider well, the main end of his life and studies is, to know God and Jesus Christ, which is eternal life, John 17:3; and therefore to lay Jesus Christ as the only foundation for our children to follow the moral principles of the Ten Commandments.
James Madison, the primary author of the Constitution of the United States, said this: "We have staked the whole future of our new nation not upon the power of
government; far from it. We have staked the future of all our political
constitutions upon the capacity of each of ourselves to govern ourselves
according to the moral principles of the Ten Commandments."
We ask God to bless America. But, how can He bless a Nation that has departed so far
from Him? Prior to September 11, He was not welcome in America. Most of what you
read in this article has been erased from our textbooks. Revisionists have rewritten
history to remove the truth about our country's Christian roots.
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