You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that! (2 Timothy 3:1-5 NLT)
The King James Version refers to this time just before the Tribulation as perilous times. What is interesting is that Paul instructs us in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” But in 2 Timothy 3:5, Paul instructs us, “Stay away from people like that!”
So, which is it? Let’s just say the uncertain times we are living in needs Holy Spirit discernment more than ever. No matter which way we turn there are contradictions, uncertainty, and chaos. Meeting on common ground and agreeing to disagree are no longer options. This is not only true for the secular world, but is also true in the Church world.
One observation, which may seem silly, but I believe it is an indication of people’s frustrations, and that is what is happening on our roadways over the past year. I am passed constantly by drivers going over 50% of the speed limit. I have drivers with ‘Jesus’ and ‘Pray’ bumper stickers give me the finger. I guess people try to relieve their anxieties with the acceleration pedal and an obscene gesture.
The other observation is with the media. Diametrically opposed information is in our face constantly. Our government is in deep turmoil.
All of this is a result of sin. On top of that, our nation has turned its back on the very God who made us great:
When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21 NLT)
As Christians, we must seek discernment as to direction like never before:
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2 ESV)
Teach me good judgment (discernment) and knowledge, For I have believed and trusted and relied on Your commandments.(Psalms 119:66 AMP)
But solid food is for the [spiritually] mature, whose senses are trained by practice to distinguish between what is morally good and what is evil. (Hebrews 5:14 AMP)
Read the following very carefully and realize it is written to Christians, not people of the world:
What leads to [the unending] quarrels and conflicts among you? Do they not come from your [hedonistic] desires that wage war in your [bodily] members [fighting for control over you]? (James 4:1 AMP)
LOOK UP MY FRIENDS FOR JESUS IS OUR ONLY HOPE!
“And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” (Luke 21:28 KJV)
Annointing 