Word has come from Afghanistan that a teacher was killed by the Taliban for educating girls. Isis and Al Quaeda are again on the move, bombing the Karmid airport area in an attempt to forestall the evacuation of Americans and certain Afghans. The open border south of the United States is a “welcome” sign to those same terrorists who flew planes into the twin towers. The U.S. is printing money without regard to cover trillions of dollars of spending, causing rampant inflation.
What should we do when not just problems but crises confront us from all sides? First, of course, we must pray. “Deliver us from evil” are words that are no longer limited to the Lord’s Prayer when I pray. We should pray for peace: peace in the world and peace in our hearts and lives. Jesus said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
This is the time to teach your children not to worry. We are told to “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) Be careful of your conversations around your children regarding the horrific events unfolding in our country and in the world. If they watch the news with you,
talk with them about what is happening and tell them to be certain that God is in charge no matter how bad it looks. He will take care of getting us to heaven. “Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? And not one of them is forgotten in God’s sight. Why, even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So stop being afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.” (Luke 12:6-7)
While masks, and ankle monitors, and CRT may fade in importance when compared to a possible war starting again in Afghanistan, we cannot let our focus shift so completely that those with plans we disagree with find our inattention an opening for them to push forward. As Americans, we can express our opinions to our leaders at every level. We can vote people out of office if we don’t believe they are leading us and our children in God-pleasing directions.
Several of my friends and relatives have asked me recently if I think we are in the End Times—the last days of the Last Days. I have to admit it seems like it, but such thoughts must not immobilize us with fear. If we really think the Lord will return soon, we must—we MUST—tell the love and salvation through Jesus Christ to everyone we can. If the days are short, our urgency increases to let others know the beauty of the life that awaits believers in heaven, and the misery that will be everlasting for those who do not believe in our Savior.
Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. He said in a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.” Revelation 14:6–7