After the dark COVID years, I had to eliminate watching the news from my daily routine. I’m sure I wasn’t alone in believing I needed answers about the pandemic and what was going on in the world while I was on lockdown. I turned to the news because traditionally it was supposed to be a source of reliable and truthful information. When I was unsure about if I could trust them, I turned to social media. There I fell down an even deeper rabbit hole, and I am not so happy to admit I was losing my mind! There were a few months there where I could not even look away. I started noticing that my mental well-being was suffering. I was questioning God and where He was in all this madness going on on Earth! To me, it looked like this was the end of the world as we know it! I was here, about to witness Revelation. With that on my mind, I fell down another rabbit hole. I came to the realization that Earth is Ghetto! Overall, I came across something online that said in all the noise and misinformation being thrown at us, the only thing we know to be the absolute truth is the word of God.
That got me together really quick!
I grabbed my Bible because I wanted to see if what was going on all around us was a testament of the end times. Here is what I found.
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.”
-Matthew 24:6-7
Sign 1:Wars and Rumors of Wars
In Matthew 24:6-7 (NIV), Jesus foretold of wars and rumors of wars: “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.”
In modern times, conflicts and tensions between nations continue to make headlines. Take, for instance, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, which has seen countless lives lost and immense suffering on both sides. Additionally, the civil unrest and conflict in Sudan serve as a stark reminder of the turmoil that plagues many regions of the world.
Sign 2: Persecution of Christians
Matthew 24:9 (NIV) warns of persecution and hatred towards followers of Christ. Even today, Christians face discrimination and persecution worldwide. In countries like China, where the government restricts religious freedom, believers risk arrest for practicing their faith.
Reflection: While these signs may hint at biblical prophecies, remember that the exact timing of Christ’s return remains unknown (Matthew 24:36). Instead of fixating on signs, focus on living faithfully and being prepared for whatever the future holds.
Sign 3: Increase in Lawlessness
In Matthew 24:12 (NIV), Jesus spoke of the end times, saying, “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold.”
We see evidence of this increase in lawlessness in our world today, with rising crime rates, moral decay, and disregard for God’s laws. Society is becoming increasingly secular, drifting further away from the values and principles outlined in the Bible.
Reflection: While these signs may indeed point to the fulfillment of biblical prophecies, it’s essential to remember that no one knows the exact day or hour of Christ’s return (Matthew 24:36). Instead of fixating solely on the signs, we should focus on living lives of faithfulness and readiness, prepared for whatever the future may hold. The signs serve as reminders of the need for vigilance and spiritual preparedness, rather than definitive indicators of the end of history.
As we think about the signs of the times, let’s not despair but take heart, for our redemption draws near (Luke 21:28, NIV): “When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads because your redemption is drawing near.” Remember, while the signs of the end times may cause uncertainty and fear, they also serve as a reminder of the hope we have in Christ. So let’s keep our eyes fixed on Him, trusting in His promises and living each day with purpose and faith.
Here is a prayer for anyone reading this post.
Staying Grounded in God’s Word: Here is A Prayer for Strength in the End Time
Dear Heavenly Father,
As we contemplate the signs of the end times and the prophecies outlined in your Word, we come before you with humble hearts, seeking your guidance and strength. We acknowledge that in this world filled with distractions and deceptions, it’s easy to lose sight of your truth. But we ask for your grace to keep your Word, the Bible, as our daily practice and steadfast anchor.
Guard our hearts, Lord, from the lies and temptations of this world and the schemes of the enemy. Help us to discern truth from falsehood and to stand firm on the foundation of your Word. May we be rooted in your love and filled with the wisdom of your Spirit, so that we may not be led astray by the allure of deceit.
Bless all that we do, Lord, whether in our daily tasks or in spreading the message of your Gospel. Remind us of the blessing found in sharing your Word with others, as it says in Proverbs 11:30 (NIV), “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives.”
Grant us courage and boldness to be ambassadors of your truth, shining your light in a world darkened by sin and confusion. May our lives reflect your love and grace, drawing others closer to you and leading them into a deeper relationship with Christ.
In all things, Lord, may your will be done, and may your name be glorified. We offer this prayer in the name of Jesus, our Savior and Redeemer.
Amen.
-Renée Bhagwandeen
