troubled times – Moment to Moment (Bible blog)

Though we live in troubled times

Looking at the daily news, it clear that we live in troubled times. And sometimes, it’s hard not to feel depressed, fearful, or discouraged.

But it’s in these days that I think Paul’s words are particularly apropos.

Be alert, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong. Do everything in love. (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)

“Be alert.”

Why? Because the devil will try to discourage us. To make us fearful.

As Peter said, Satan is like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. So watch out for him. (1 Peter 5:8)

“Be courageous. Be strong.”

Why? Because Jesus who is in us is greater than our Enemy who is in the world (I John 4:4).

And through Jesus, we already have the victory. (1 Corinthians 15:57-58).

And he is coming again.

The first time, he came to deal with sin.

The next time he comes, he will end all evil and bring salvation, making all things new. (Hebrews 9:28)

“Do everything in love.”

Why? Because it is love that distinguishes us from this world. And it is only through our loving those around us that we can make a difference in these troubled times.

So let us stand firm in the faith. As David sang, “We will see the goodness of the Lord.” (Psalm 27:13)

Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart be courageous.
Wait for the Lord. (Psalm 27:14)

Facing troubled times (2)

I wrote last week about facing troubled times. In this passage, Peter concludes his thoughts on facing such times. What do we do?

First, humble yourself before God.

In troubled times, what does that mean we should do? It means casting your anxieties on him (1 Peter 5:6-7).

Don’t in your pride attempt to handle your anxieties on your own. Cast your anxieties on him. Choose to believe even through these hard times that he cares for you.

Second, be alert to Satan’s attacks (8-9).

In these times, Satan will try to discourage you, making you question God and his goodness.

He’ll try to get you to indulge in sin as a relief from the stress you’re feeling.

He’ll try to turn your stress into fights with your husband, your wife, your children, or those around you.

Be alert to what Satan is doing. And resist him.

Third, stand firm in God’s grace.

By his grace, he will restore you, mending what’s broken in your life.

By his grace, he will give you the strength to stand.

By his grace, he will stabilize you when you’re about to fall.

And by his grace, will set you on a sure foundation (10).

We were saved by his grace. Now let us walk in that grace daily.

Finally, worship him, remembering who he is.

“To him be dominion forever!” Peter sings (11).

God is the king. Though we suffer, he has not lost control of this world. He reigns even now.

So after watching the news seeing all that’s going on in this world, turn off the TV, turn off social media, turn off the internet, and worship God.

In these troubled times, peace to all of you who are in Christ. (14)