Understanding the Times
1 Chronicles 12:32 And of the children of Issachar, there were two hundred chiefs, men who had expert knowledge of the times and what it was best for Israel to do, and all their brothers were under their orders.
It is a sad analysis of mankind, that most if not all of our leaders do not have a clue at what stage we are on God’s historic clock. What time is it? Time is running out on God’s hourglass. Some years ago as a young man, we heard the “trumpet sound” of the Lord’s messengers enlightening us concerning the “soon return of the Lord Jesus” – to rapture or “catch-away” His Church/Bride. There was much repentance and preparation as we anticipated the day – which seemed so close at hand! I believe these men of God had an “understanding of the times”; something that so often seems to be lacking in church leaders today. If that day was close then, how much more so today?
Jesus told the story of ten virgins; friends of the bride who were awaiting the bridal party. The night had come and the party had not yet arrived. Then there came a cry; “They’re coming!” Quickly the virgins lit their lamps – but alas, half of them had “run out of kerosene” – and groped in the darkness - they arrived late at the feast and were denied entrance. Five of the virgins had understanding of the times and kept their “fuel” supply refreshed for this very eventuality – a seeming delay of the arrival of the bridal party and the possibility of intense darkness. They were able to keep their lamps illuminated and gained timely entrance to the wedding feast.
What is the time? How close is the “bridal party”? Can we hear the party’s approach? Can we hear the voice of the Bridegroom booming across the earth in the current darkness? Do we have an understanding of the times in which we live? Above all, have we a sufficient supply of oil to carry us through?
God has always had His men and woman who were “in touch” with what was really happening. A superficial analysis of current events will not “cut it”. We need a look at the “big picture” and by virtue of the illuminating aid of the oil of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, get a true picture of our times – and above all; what to do! In Israel’s case, God’s people who were “in touch with the times” were those of the tribe of Issachar. They had insight and wisdom – knowing what was needed to “get the job done.”
Isaiah 60:2 Look, darkness will cover the earth, and intense darkness the people: but the LORD will descend upon you, and His glory will be seen upon you. (Free paraphrase)
Correct interpretation of the things happening in our current society and world is imperative if we are to be prepared for what lies ahead. It is imperative to keep us from becoming entangled with hurtful beliefs and practices. It is imperative to make us effective in our walk and witness in the intense spiritual darkness that has covered the earth – and will increase up to the arrival of our Lord Jesus. This insight is imperative for us so we can keep the lamps burning brightly to draw the lost to the saving knowledge of our Lord Jesus.
Satan’s plan is:
- One world government. How often do we hear the phrase of “one world”; what actually is “United Nations”? What is the meaning of “Global Village”? Why the drive for one world currency – Europe is already there with the Euro. World unity and so-called “World Peace”, while sounding lofty and noble, are nothing short of building a mass rebellion against the Lord. Institutions that once opened their sessions in prayer to the Living Lord Jesus Christ have dispensed with this practice to avoid offense to other religions. So-called “Christian Countries” have lost their way and are groping in the intense darkness covering the earth.
- One world religion. Be assured that Satan ardently desires the worship that belongs solely to the Lord. Satan’s temptation to Jesus was “fall down and worship me…and I will give you...” He’ll offer you fame, fortune, peace and happiness – as long as you deny the Lord His right. But Satan will never deliver – the “carrot” offered always seems out of reach; resulting in a carousel of chasing something unattainable without the Lord Jesus.
- Setting himself up as God – he tried it before and was cast out of heaven – he’s trying it again; but will be defeated.
See these things behind the “smoke screens” we are made aware of daily in the news and media.
Note that Issachar “knew what should be done”. What are we to “do” in our times? Here are a few guidelines:
- Jesus said “Occupy till I come”
- Serve the Lord with “singleness of heart” – one-mindedness
- Avoid being caught up in worldly affairs
- Encourage and exhort each other
- Seek the protective fellowship with other believers
- Feed on the Word of God prayerfully
- Allow His glory to shine and dispel the darkness in your corner
- Look up expectantly – “your redemption draws nigh”
- Become “missionary minded” – the harvest is ripe – be a laborer for Jesus
Be aware of the times we live in. The world system is still run by the “god of this world” – the Kingdom of God is not yet fully seen. Many are yet outside the Kingdom – “Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as in heaven…” Seek and pursue this goal.
Romans 13:11 This also, knowing the time, that it is already time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we believed.
Are you ready to meet Him?
Peter Crause
This is not copyrighted and may be freely used and distributed.
e-mail: crause.pd@shaw.ca
