Watching Signs Unfold

 Jesus warned that we are not to date-set. He taught that the timing of the end times is known only to God the Father, not even the Son Himself or the angels know the exact day or hour. 

He said that we could watch for signs of the end being near.  In Matthew 24 and Luke 21, Jesus described various events that would precede his return, including:

• wars,
• rumors of wars,
• famines, 
• earthquakes, 
• and increased wickedness. 

These were not to be confused with false signs and wonders. 

Lately, it seems the signs are unfolding all around the world. In Matthew 24:32, Jesus warns his followers to observe signs in the sky, specifically related to the time of his return. He says, 

"When the fig tree's branches become tender and bear leaves, you know that summer is near. So, when you see these signs in the sky, you know that the Son of Man is near, at the very door." 

I was reading the news this morning and could only shake my head because so much is happening every day that reads like it came right out of the pages of the Bible.

"And there will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars, and upon the earth distress of nations in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves."

"Men fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken." 

"So also, when you see these things taking place, know that the kingdom of God is near."

"You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times."

Jesus gave us a heads-up. Let me ask you if any of these sound like every day things:

• He described a time when people would love themselves and their money, be boastful and proud, and disobedient to God. 
• Jesus spoke of a time when love would wane, with people prioritizing pleasure over God. 
• He foretold a period of intense suffering, such as the world had never seen before, and would not see again. 

Now, those are things that anyone, regardless of their faith (or lack of) can relate to. Christians, can see these things happening.

•  2 Timothy 3:5 condemns having "a form of godliness but denying its power".  I can't count how many people that I hear talking about "higher powers" and being "spiritual". And so many people within the Christian churches look no different from people in covens and cults and Atheistic gatherings. 
• False teachers are more prominent it seems that true carriers of the Gospel. I see people putting the word "Pastor" before their names as if they bought the letters off a shady website. They are living for wealth and beauty and fashion and fame harder than any Hollywood hustler. Most of them look like they belong on reality shows.
• People compromising their faith to please human sensitivities. I don't deny anyone the choice to be or believe whatever they want. However, I will not be bullied into being okay with sinful choices and/or lifestyles.
• People even in the USA can be forced to act against their Christian beliefs under the threat of losing a job. Not so much is anyone forcing people to suppress their sinful behavior to fit in. I don't mind not wearing a cross to a job. Why should someone else mind not using odd pronouns or wearing certain attire to a job?
• What was once considered wrong is now considered right and vice versa. In no many situations.

So, as I go through the days, I can almost feel the time of the Lord coming.

Please, get past you stubbornness or willfulness and just consider the fact that the Bible is true. Ask yourself what you are betting your eternity on. 

Peace

--Free