How are we supposed to live when the world seems like it’s out of control?
Jesus tells his disciples (Matthew 24) that they will see and hear about wars at home and abroad, famine, and earthquakes. He goes on to say that there will be persecution, false prophets will arise from within the church, and people won’t know right from wrong. The way Jesus is speaking to his disciples in this moment is very much from a prophetic perspective. Somehow, every generation tends to think that the crises we face today are the worst ever in history. We tend to think that our time is worse than any other time—and we think—“surely this is the end.”
But what does Jesus say that their attitude toward all these bad things should be?
“Don’t let any of this run you off the rails. Don’t give in. Don’t give up. You should expect to feel like the world is spinning out of control. You’re going to think it’s the end of the world, but I’m telling you, it’s not.”
So, how are we supposed to approach each day with this in mind? Here are three ways to live in a world full of tribulation.
- Don’t give up.
- Stay awake—stay faithful no matter what.
- Stick to God’s mission no matter what. Don’t become apathetic or indifferent or get caught up in all kinds of "End Time" speculation—trying to predict or figure out when the end will come.
When asked about returning to establish his kingdom on earth, Jesus said, “I don’t know. Only the Father knows. Just be ready.” This message, given to his disciples over 2000 years ago, is just as relevant today as it was for Jesus’ followers then. Live every day as if this were the day of Christ’s return. Let everything else go and focus on being faithful to Jesus and his mission, and you’ll experience the reality of God’s salvation no matter how bad things get in your world.
*We are a church located in Greenville, South Carolina. Our vision is to see God transform us into a community of grace passionately pursuing life and mission with Jesus.*
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Written by Charlie Boyd