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WEEKLY ENCOURAGEMENT
Updated: Tuesday, October 21, 2008
NEW WORLD FINANCIAL ORDER
Recently I heard a ruling official of the Common Market here in Europe say, "We need a new world financial order." Wow!! Does this sound like prophecy being fulfilled to you? It certainly does to me.
The last few weeks have truly shaken the heart of the modern world. Banks in various parts of the world closed, world stock markets fell to all time lows and no one seemed to really understand what had caused such a world-wide reaction. Clearly, the Lord allowed this all to take place at this specific time for His purpose and plan.
I believe these occurrences are bringing us closer to the end times. I do NOT mean the end of the world is just around the corner. However, the world is being set up for a one world currency, government and leader. When these things begin to fall into place, the anti-christ and the tribulation is not far behind. The rapture of born-again believers is getting closer. "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord." 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
Some may find this frightening. I find it exciting. However, it also causes me to do some serious consideration of my own life. Am I living in obedience to what the Lord has revealed to me? If the rapture took place right now, would I meet the Lord with joy, or would I feel regret or even shame at my disobedience in His presence?
The Bible clearly states that we can not know when the Lord will call His own out of this world, but we can know when it is getting closer. We are encouraged to be alert, to be looking for His coming while we are obediently serving Him.
I have heard some folks say that if the rapture is close at hand, then why should we begin new projects or prepare for ministry? Since none of us know how long we will live at any time, we could use this argument to refrain from ever doing anything for the Lord. In fact, just the opposite is true. Because He could call us out at any time, we must be obedient and strive to do with His power, all that He gives us to do.
>"Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. THEREFORE, MY BELOVED BRETHREN, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." 1 Corinthians 15:51-52,58
My the thought of the impending rapture and being in the very presence of our Lord and Savior fill us with joy, zeal and determination to live faithfully for Him.
THOUGHT TO PONDER:Are you ready to stand in the very presence of your Lord right now? If not, what needs to be changed?
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- Sandy Hastings |
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