These Perilous Times

Is it by chance?  In these days of terrible news from eastern Europe and much uncertainty in the Middle East and threats in Asia, is it any wonder that the incidents of domestic abuse and violence are also escalating?   As lawlessness and violence increase in the nations, isn’t it true that we all know someone who is also experiencing the grief of serious and dangerous trouble in their homes?

The Word of God is so very clear in Paul’s second letter to Timothy in chapter 3:

“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!”

These are indeed fierce seasons.  

And yet, the Bible also includes 365 “Fear Nots” — one for every day of the year.  Though the oceans roar and the mountains quake and pestilence seems to be prevalent for the past two years, we shall not be afraid.  Though we may live in homes where angry voices rage day after day and dishes are thrown across the room and unbearable emotional pain wears us down, we can turn our eyes on Jesus.  He is with us. He sees the tears rolling down our cheeks. He hears our cries.  He has a heart that breaks for what breaks our hearts.  His compassion is infinite.

God has a plan.  He is still sovereign, despite the bad news rolls, the doom and gloom scrolls.  In His perfect time, He will act.  He will have His justice.  When we are at the end of our ropes…that’s when He ALWAYS shows up, strong and mighty.

Trust the powerful love of Jesus in these perilous times.