Signs?

There will be signs in the sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves. – Luke 21:25

Few like to think about horrible things predicted during the end times: wars, rumors of wars, natural disasters, persecution of believers in Christ, and international distress and confusion. Yet the words in Luke 21 offer encouragement.

When Jesus was about to be crucified, He told the disciples it was like a woman in labor (John 16:21). Though they would grieve at His death they would rejoice at His resurrection. And concerning the end times, though there is distress and pain for a season, there will be joy at His return. As a mother rejoices at the birth of her baby, the church will rejoice at redemption, when Jesus returns and puts all things right.

In Luke 21, Jesus tells what His people should and should not do when these prophecies come to pass. Don’t be led astray (v. 8). “Do not be terrified” (v.9). If arrested for your faith, trust God to give you wisdom to reply (v. 14-15). Be faithful. “By your endurance you will gain your lives” (v. 19). “Straighten up and raise your heads” watching for your redemption (v. 28). Be alert and pray for strength to escape persecution (v. 36).

In troubled times it is important to focus on the overall plan, salvation in Christ, and His return. Pray for those who have yet to receive Him. Pray for the ministries who work to maintain the freedoms of religion and speech in the United States. Pray for the restoration of godly principles. Pray for strength and wisdom to stand firm in faith and trust in the Lord during difficult times. because of the roaring of the sea and the waves. – Luke 21:25

Few like to think about horrible things predicted during the end times: wars, rumors of wars, natural disasters, persecution of believers in Christ, and international distress and confusion. Yet the words in Luke 21 offer encouragement.

When Jesus was about to be crucified, He told the disciples it was like a woman in labor (John 16:21). Though they would grieve at His death they would rejoice at His resurrection. And concerning the end times, though there is distress and pain for a season, there will be joy at His return. As a mother rejoices at the birth of her baby, the church will rejoice at redemption, when Jesus returns and puts all things right.

In Luke 21, Jesus tells what His people should and should not do when these prophecies come to pass. Don’t be led astray (v. 8). “Do not be terrified” (v.9). If arrested for your faith, trust God to give you wisdom to reply (v. 14-15). Be faithful. “By your endurance, you will gain your lives” (v. 19). “Straighten up and raise your heads” watching for your redemption (v. 28). Be alert and pray for strength to escape persecution (v. 36).

In troubled times it is essential to focus on the overall plan, salvation in Christ, and His return.