We are living in perilous times. Inflation is on the rise, making it harder on those already financially challenged. The frequency and severity of natural disasters are increasing rapidly. Years into the Covid pandemic, hundreds of people still die of the disease every day.
We are at the brink of World War III with Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. Maybe the invasion of Ukraine and the killings of innocent civilians, including children, indicate WW III has already started. It is hard to see how this ruthless attack on innocent people ends well. Our prayers are with the people of Ukraine.
Adding all this to the struggles you are going through can make it hard to keep the faith that brings supernatural life and hope.
Jesus said it would be like this in the last days, which began at his crucifixion and has escalated to our day. Jesus warned that in these days, some faithful followers — “if possible, even the elect” (Matthew 24:24 ESV) — will fall away.
How do we keep the faith that brings us supernatural life and hope in these perilous times? Consider Jesus. God’s word to us today is “…consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession.” (Hebrews 3:1 ESV).At the cross, Jesus accomplished all Father God sent him to do, providing to us abundant life and salvation from sin. Jesus justified us at the cross — although we are guilty, He declares us blameless.
When Jesus ascended back to glory, He did not leave us comfortless or powerless. Instead, Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to indwell us, sealing us as God’s children as we take up the cross and follow Him. The Holy Spirit gives us abundant life now and a supernatural hope that the best is yet to come — eternal life with Jesus.
So, Beloved, the next time the devil tries to get you to lose your faith and your hope, there is only one matter for you to consider: Jesus. Your life is in Jesus, and His life is in you. He will get you through all that comes your way, reminding you that the best is yet to come. Keep the faith. Live for Jesus. Be His light in these increasingly darkened days.
Know that you are loved,
gaj