Date: August 30, 2009 9:42 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Preparing for Urgent Times

Preparing for Urgent Times

“The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here . . .” (Romans 13:11-12).
Scripture Focus: Romans 13:11-14

My heart skips a beat when I read what the apostle Paul wrote in Romans 13, giving a fresh call for action to believers in Rome!

The words are as personal and relevant for us today as they were for the early church. Paul warns believers not to get sidetracked into non-essentials and lose sight of the focus we need to make a difference in this world. We live in a time when the possibility of annihilation is a real fear for some. That may cause a loss of peace for most people, but as believers we carry within us the answer to such fears–faith in Jesus Christ. Our hope of living eternally with Christ gives us the incentive to serve Him faithfully on earth.

Paul says, “The hour has come!” It’s time for action. We need to look for opportunities to make a difference–opening our homes, offering meals, listening to brokenhearted stories. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” (John 14:27) Let’s share that truth with those who need it.

Insight: Trouble is the common denominator for mankind, but in place of fear Christ offers hope and peace.