“We’ve Got to Get Ready!”
Every once in a while a dear saint comes to me, and with agitation in their voice, tells me that what the church needs is a series of instructional workshops on getting ready for the time of trouble—“You know, pastor, a course teaching us survival techniques, how to live off the land.”
First of all, what’s the motive behind this request? Fear! But, my Bible tells me:
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. (I John 4:18)
Second, does the Bible talk about a time of trouble for God’s people immediately before Christ returns? Yes! But, notice the promise in the immediate context.
How awful that day will be! None will be like it. It will be a time of trouble for Jacob, but he will be saved out of it. (Jer. 30:7)
The coming time of trouble is real. But, praise God, so are the promises God has given! The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble. (Ps. 37:39)
The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him. (Nahum 1:7)
Let’s settle one thing for sure. With today’s technology, there is no hiding. Nor is there anything we can do to physically prepare for earth’s final events. Our task now is not to get ready, but to be ready! John tells us:
And now, children, stay with Christ. Live deeply in Christ. Then we’ll be ready for him when he appears, ready to receive him with open arms, with no cause for red-faced guilt or lame excuses when he arrives. (I John 2:28, Message)
Only by knowing God here can we prepare to meet him at his coming. (Review and Herald, 7/20/1897)
Let’s spend time getting to know Jesus today, then we are always ready for tomorrow.
By Pastor Sherman McCormick |
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