Daily devotion – A new day and an increase in hostilities and violence.
Looking Up in Expectation
We awake today to news of escalating missile attacks, increasing threats of war, and growing civil unrest in places such as the United Kingdom, Scotland, and particularly Ireland.
We look at our own nation and, sadly, little seems to have changed since the Bondi tragedy. Politicians continue to play political games, carefully positioning themselves so as not to offend voting blocs or special interest groups.
While some may try to ignore the events unfolding around the world, the reality is that our world has changed. Australia’s isolation and distance have long provided a sense of security, but those natural barriers are no longer what they once were. The strategic presence of China throughout the Pacific Islands to our north is a reminder that global events are moving ever closer to home.
Many people need a personal wake-up call before they set aside their self-focused priorities and recognize the growing instability around them. Yet this is nothing new.
In our studies through Exodus, we have watched Pharaoh repeatedly harden his heart against God. But as Egypt’s troubles intensified, even Pharaoh’s own servants began sounding the alarm. They could see the obvious, but Pharaoh refused to listen.
Today, we all live on the same planet, created by the one true God. His plan for this sinful and fallen world is unfolding exactly as He declared. History is moving toward the fulfillment of His purposes and the culmination of His prophetic Word.
As Bible-believing Christians, we understand that the next major prophetic event is the catching away of the Church. Following that will come a period of unprecedented tribulation, when a powerful world leader will arise and events unlike anything humanity has ever experienced will unfold during a seven-year period.
The question is not whether God’s Word will come to pass. The question is: Are we ready?
Are your children aware of the times in which we live? Do they understand that the world is not simply going to continue as it always has?
The Apostle Paul repeatedly warned believers not to be ignorant:
“For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery…” (Romans 11:25)
Keep your eyes on Israel in these last days. God’s prophetic clock continues to move forward.
“Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” (2 Corinthians 2:11)
The enemy is active, and his attacks are increasing. We must remain watchful, prayerful, and grounded in God’s Word.
“But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep… that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13)
What a glorious reminder that our future is not fear, but hope. While the world grows darker, our redemption draws nearer.
Time is short. Let us live with urgency, share the gospel faithfully, encourage one another daily, and keep our eyes fixed upon Jesus.
I look up in expectation, for our Lord’s return is closer today than ever before.
Heavenly Father, help us to discern the times in which we live. Keep us from fear and distraction, and strengthen our faith as we await the return of Your Son. May we be faithful witnesses, shining as lights in a dark world and pointing others to the hope found only in Jesus Christ. Amen.