"It is testified by the prophet, that "the Lord God will surely do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." This revelation is made that his people's faith may be confirmed and enlarged; and that in every generation they may know the times and seasons to which they stand related.
Knowing the signs they are enabled to discern the times; and while consternation and dismay cause men's hearts to fail, they are courageous, and rejoice in perceiving the approach of the kingdom of God. This is the proper use of the prophetic word. It was thus that the ancients used it, and were enabled to live in advance of their contemporaries.
This appears from the exhortation of the apostle who says:
"We have a sure word of prophecy, whereunto ye do well to take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place until the day dawn and the day-star arise . . ." . . . Some were not unmindful of this exhortation, which is as applicable to us as to them; for the day has not yet dawned, nor has the day-star arisen."
Brother John Thomas - Elpis Israel
Well, we certainly can see the ‘signs of the times’ in which we live. Wars, strife, crime, violence, terrorism, famine, disease and so many other ills that beset mankind, increase with each passing year. The war on terrorism continues apace, particularly in Afghanistan and Iraq. Is this the beginning of the end for man’s dominion or is this ongoing war against terrorism another of the preparatory events along the way? Time and hindsight will tell. But once again the exhortation from these events is to be steadfast, to be watching, to be preparing to meet the Lord Jesus and to keeping separate from both the world and those who tolerate error in their midst. But it is also equally important that we redouble our efforts, making it a priority to preach the word, in season and out of season.
What we do most certainly know, is that God has revealed His purpose, as Bro Thomas quoted: "the Lord God will surely do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." We are very privileged to know the overall events that will take place. We know a time of trouble is coming such as has never been. Bro Thomas comments ‘consternation and dismay cause men's hearts to fail’. People throughout the world grow ever more fearful of what may happen and indeed the point will come when the nations will as we read, rage and roar as the tossing sea, casting up their mire and mud.
No, it is not for us to dwell in darkness, for as Bro Thomas quoted: "We have a sure word of prophecy, whereunto ye do well to take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place until the day dawn and the day-star arise." The Word is sure, firm and steadfast, God has declared:
"I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please" Isaiah 46:10
No matter what mankind plans, God’s purpose shall indeed stand. It has been fascinating to watch the UN and the European nations striving to avoid the inevitable war in Iraq. More than this, the alliances are being forged that according to prophecy we expect to see prior to Christ’s return. We do indeed live in exciting times. Truly as the proverb says:
"many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21
So shall we be as others who lose heart at the world events and stressors of life? Nay, let us take great comfort, for we know that God is in complete control! The day will dawn and the day-star arise. May that day indeed be soon, for it is all our hope and desire.
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