HOPE!

“ALWAYS BE JOYFUL. NEVER STOP PRAYING. BE THANKFUL IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES, FOR THAT IS GOD’S WILL FOR YOU WHO BELONG TO CHRIST. ” 1 THESSALONIANS 5:16-18“

“DO NOT STIFLE THE HOLY SPIRIT. DO NOT SCOFF AT PROPHECIES, BUT TEST EVERYTHING THAT IS SAID. HOLD ON TO WHAT IS GOOD. STAY AWAY FROM EVERY KIND OF EVIL.” 1 THESSALONIANS 5:19-22

When faced with persecution and even death, how could Christians of the first century remain faithful to their Lord? The answer is simple: hope. Though the world around them was hostile and often appeared to be winning the battle, these Christians could stand firm because they knew the end of the story: Jesus Christ and his saints would be victorious in the end. We are not living in the first century but in the end times. You and I as Christians are facing persecutions and may even face death. Are we as prepared as those of the first century? It takes great faith and trust in our God in heaven to be sure of what we hope for. We must surround ourselves with his holy word, continued prayer and continued praise even in times of desperation. We must not give in. We must not look defeated, talk defeated or feel defeated. We must be joyful in all things. It is important that we test everything that is said against the Word of God. We must hold on to our faith and not let go. There is a time coming very soon that our faith will be greatly tested. Our trust in God will be stressed and the voice of the Holy Spirit will be shouting to us the things we must do. We must, however, listen and listen carefully. We must put into action the directions given by the Holy Spirit for our lives. We must hold onto what is good and stay away from evil. PRAISE THE LORD IN ALL THINGS!