We all want to know. What will happen? How will it happen? Will I be around? Yikes! What if I am! Or what if I’m not?
“We’re seeing the signs, aren’t we?” a preacher asked recently.
Some would agree. Others would cringe, shaken up with that realization. And yet, others, dog-paddling through their troubles, don’t even have a breath left to ponder on that notion.
There’s no denying, things are changing, and not for the better. Are we witnessing signs of the “end times?” What is your reaction? Without hesitation, I know what mine is—joy mixed with a bit of anticipation.
Some Promises to Stand On
I assert that not because I live a perfect life, have all my words, thoughts and deeds lined in the correct order or my soul is squeaky clean; but because of the promise God made to you and me: 1) We have reason to anticipate good things; 2) We have the hope for eternal life; 3) We have a priceless inheritance; 4) The invitation to receive our salvation through Christ is still open; 5) Our trials are temporary; 6) God’s power is protecting us; 7) There’s a reward when we trust in Him; 8) We have permission to live with great expectation.
God Gave Us the Details in 1 Peter 1:2-10 (NLT)
We have something waiting for us. “A priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay (v. 4).
We have strong protection. “And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see” (v. 5).
Trials are part of the plan, but so is His freedom. “So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold” (vv. 6-7a).
Adversity turns to our advantage. “So, when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls” (vv. 7b-9).
While the world scatters in fear, chased by stress and burdened by anxiety, those who trust in God are resting, relaxed and reassured.
The End Times Are Here
The time to end our fear for tomorrow, the end to worry about what will happen. The end of wondering where we will be, how we will be and when will all happen.
Time to end all negative emotions and instead get busy and prepare our portfolio. one built not on financial assets, but the spiritual portfolio of God’s Word—the silver of His faithfulness, the gold of His mercy and compassion, and the stock of His promises, which never decreases in value.
We can confidently draw from the divine dividends that never diminish nor run dry.
Let’s Pray
Father, thank you for the riches of your love that takes me through each day, each season and through trials and joyous moments too. I count that the approaching end times will mark a deeper commitment to you. In Jesus’ name.
Where do you find reassurance as the end times approach? {eoa}
Janet Perez Eckles is an international speaker and the author of four books. She has helped thousands conquer fear and bring back joy.
This article originally appeared at janetperezeckles.com.
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