Endurance
Lately I’ve been thinking about the many changes that have taken place within the past year in our world and I think, where is God in all of this and it is answered in Deuteronomy 31:8,“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” He is omniscient (observing everything we say, do and think).
Our father knew as time moved on awful events would come to pass. In warning the Lord says, “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for these things must happen, but the end is still to come.” Matthew 24:6. He warns in Leviticus 19:33-34, “…when a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.” Psalm 24:1
Each of us is intentionally, individually, and uniquely created for the Lords purposes. There are no coincidences with the Lord. The diversity is intentional. Each of us were made to fulfill a specific role and purpose Do not ever let another person tell you what God has made you for because He has already told you in. The Lord says that you, yes You reading this, are loved, valued, and created with purpose reflecting His image. Jeremiah 1:5 lets you know that “Before He formed you in the womb He knew you, before you were born He set you apart; He appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” Amen. Where do you see anything in the Lords words that say, you do not belong here? That is of man. Satan is busy! The Lord calls him the father of all Lies!
The Lord forewarned us of what was coming. It is why He has given us His Armor, spiritual protection, and defense but you must put it on. The devil is busy. 1 Peter 5:8 says, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” Satan’s job is to distract believers with foolishness, lies, hatred and half-truths. Let us not forget what II Timothy 4:3-4 says, “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” I would say that this is happening right now. As for me, it is crucial for me to keep my heart aligned with the Lord’s Will by remaining vigilant and grounded in faith.
Matthew 24:13 says, “But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” When I read this I realize that as believers’ trials and tribulation and our perseverance through them demonstrate our true Faith. Salvation is upheld by God’s sustaining grace. It is not achieved through human effort. Our perseverance confirms that we remain faithful in Christ despite what we are witnessing in our world right now, increasing coldness, deception, greed, racism, selfishness, and jealousy. Be aware because the Lord says in Matthew 19:30, “The last will be first.” What does this mean? This signifies that humility and service are far more important to our God than worldly status. Those who are overlooked in this world will receive honor in God’s kingdom. The Lord warns His people about tribulations and deceptions preceding the end times, emphasizing that perseverance in faith until the end is necessary for final salvation. Amen. Remember, “He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike an abomination to the LORD.” Proverbs 17:15
Prayer: Heavenly father, May Your light shine over your children through all that is going on. Please bring upon us restored faith. Many are falling astray because they do not see you reacting to the turmoil of today. But if we draw close to you, I know you will draw close to us and reveal unknown things that will strengthen our faith and knowledge. All Good Things Come from the Lord! Amen.
GL