Read Matthew 24:6-8
Things Are Just Getting Started.
Signs of the second coming and the end times. These verses correlate with Revelation 6:3-6.
Jesus mentions the second and third signs: wars, famines and earthquakes.
Jesus says, “Wars and rumors of wars.” But “Do not be frightened, for these things must take place, but this is not the end.” What does he mean it is not the end? It sounds like Jesus is saying, “Things are just getting started. It’s going to get worse.” For Jesus says, “Nations will rise against Nations … and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.” Once again, it sounds like the pain and sorrows of Life are just getting started.
Today we have wars and rumors of wars along with famines around the world and earthquakes. But this has been going on for all time. How can we respond to all this?
1. DON’T BE FRIGHTENED, RELY ON GOD. Jesus said these things must take place. We can rest in the turmoil of life knowing that God is in control and he has a plan of Hope.
2. HAVE A TEAM MENTALITY. You never know, things may get worse so stay focused on the Lord but have a TEAM MENTALITY with the church. This is the time when the church should come together and love, help, and encourage one another.
3. BE READY! At some point Jesus is going to return. It may be today or maybe thousands of years from now. I don’t know. But the signs are there and God is patient and doesn’t wish that any perish but all come to Him in repentance (II Peter 3:9). So get ready. Get your life in order.
These principles can also be applied for us today in our everyday living. What are you going through?
1. DON’T BE FRIGHTENED, RELY ON GOD.
2. HAVE A TEAM MENTALITY. Look to the church as well.
3. BE READY! Let your life be a testimony for Jesus at all times. You never know when your circumstances will be used by God to help others in their pain and sorrow.
