Take Heart

Read:

Luke 21:7, “‘Teacher,’ they asked, ‘when will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to take place?’ He replied, ‘Don’t let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name claiming, “I am the Messiah” and saying, “The time has come!” But don’t believe them.’”

Think:

What’s always in front of you, but you can never see it? Take a moment to consider. Most people immediately blurt out, “Air!” But there’s air all around us. It’s something many fear whether they realize it or not. So, take a guess… The answer: the future! The uncertainty of the unknown can freeze us in our tracks and keep us off purpose and hinder us from pursuing God’s best in life.

Today’s reading places a whole new spin on this common fear. In fact, one might even say it’s fear of the future on steroids! In the three different gospel accounts, Jesus spoke about the end times with His disciples. (Just what you want to think about if you’re reading this first thing in the morning or right before bed, right?!) It’s not a comfortable topic to discuss, and it’s definitely scary to consider, but don’t be alarmed. Although the uncertainties of life are inescapable, Christ remains the same. His strength sustains us, and we have hope of a future in heaven, a forever spent face to face with the Savior.

In John 16:33, Jesus said, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in Me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart because I have overcome the world.” Christ has already won the war against sin and death, thereby allowing us to rest in the hope of eternal life. We don’t have to fear our forever. And in this life, although trials and sorrows are inevitable, He is with us through it all.

As Christ-followers, we live by faith, not by sight. We trust that God is all-powerful and always in control. Therefore, the only thing to fear about the end times is that we pass by so many people each day destined for a very different future in eternity. With urgency, we should be reaching out to the lost and sharing the hope we’ve found in Christ.

So, don’t fear what tomorrow may bring and take heart because, in the end, we win!

Act:

Look around at His goodness. Let it encourage you. Tell someone about Him.

Pray:

Lord Jesus, Thank You for shedding Your blood on the cross for my sins that I may look forward to the hope of heaven. When I fear the uncertainty of the unknown, remind me that You are in control. Place in my spirit an urgency to share who and what You are with others. I place my faith and trust in You alone. Amen.