The Apostle Paul under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit foretells what things will be like before the Lord Jesus returns. Look at 2 Timothy 3:1-4, “This know also that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, coveters, boasters, proud, blasphemous, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, incontinent (no self-control), fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.”
Things have truly changed in my lifetime in America. Foundation and walls have been falling all around us. We have seen cracks in honesty, integrity, truth, purity, respect and morals. We have witnessed scandals, denials, accusations and national conflict. Not since the Vietnam War era have our people been so divided and embittered — talk show hosts, television network programs, newspapers, even in the halls of our government. Everyone seems to spin these shameful events to their own benefit. We are literally tearing each other apart, and undermining so many values we all cherish.
What are we to do as Christians, followers of Jesus Christ? Head for the mountains with a year’s food supply? Get up on a soap box and rant and rail against the culture? Go sit under a Juniper tree in despair? You know that is not the solution.
Let me give a few recommendations. First, commit yourself to love the Lord Jesus and focus your life on Him (Matthew 22:37). Second, love the people in your area of influence for Christ (Matthew 22:38). Third, stand up for the Lord Jesus and boldly be His witness (Acts 1:8). Forth, encourage and teach God’s Word to God’s people (1 Thessalonian 5:11). Fifth, do get sidetracked, but be spiritually focused (Romans 14:19-20). Remember when Paul said, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the calling of God in Christ Jesus,” (Philippians 3:14).
We need one another. We need each others help, encouragement, strength, wisdom, warnings and counsel. Let’s stand together in the love of Jesus and lift His banner high. Tell someone today that Jesus loves them.
Dr. David Bouler of Global Faith Ministries, Chattanooga, Tennessee, contributed this column to the Journal Review. He can be reached by email at debouler@aol.com.
