When It Rains, It Sometimes Pours Patty Tichonoff
And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that you are not alarmed; for this must take place, but the end is not yet. Matthew 24:6 (NLT)
In the past few weeks there has been so much chaos in our world. Yet, history tells us there has always been turmoil since the beginning of time. If we think in those terms, our mind and heart will never rest. Personally, this is not how I want to live my life and yet I know family and friends that seem to be caught up in all of life’s negativity.
Jesus spoke these words about "wars and rumors of wars" and encouraged us not to be alarmed or to panic. In researching the quote, this statement is a prophecy describing the state of the world in the time leading up to the end of the age.
There are days I feel that we are in the end times with all the news that bombards us. I believe Christ is trying to tell us this is a warning for all of us, but NOT to be alarmed by the constant presence of world conflict. I found the phrase “wars and rumors of wars” appearing in Matthew 24:6, Mark 13:7, and Luke 21:9, with slight variations in wording so it is deemed important.
The good news is this: He is holding our hand and walking with us each step of the way. He reminds us to live by faith and maintain hope, rather than being overcome by fear from global unrest and mayhem. Every day we must remind ourselves that God provides strength, joy, and patience through all our adversity. Rest assured that there will come a day when God's plans will be fully realized.
Father God, not a day goes by that we are not faced with difficult decisions and hear stories of adversities that sadden us. Thank You for being our shelter and safe space. Thank You for Your Son who makes everything whole and good. You are our GOOD NEWS! AMEN.