Navigating Uncertainty in Today's World: A Call to Exsmine Our Hearts

Troy Husted

October 19, 2024

We find ourselves in a period filled with uncertainties. Plagues, natural disasters, violence in the streets, and rumors of wars dominate our daily headlines. While such events have occurred throughout history, the immediacy of the internet and 24-hour news cycles bombard us with these reports, often multiple times a day. Social media amplifies negativity, causing anxiety, depression, and bitterness to run rampant in our society. The pervasive atmosphere of fear and chaos has eroded our peace of mind, leaving us engulfed in endless debates that further divide us. It’s no surprise that violence is on the rise and that many have lost the ability to value one another. The prevailing mindset seems to be, "The world is going to hell, so let’s live for ourselves and take what we can."

The Bible clearly indicates that such troubling times will come to pass. In Matthew 24:6-8, Jesus warns us: “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. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.” These signs of the times remind us that we are not to be caught off guard; they serve as a call to vigilance and faith.

Sadly, many Christians today fall into the trap of seeking signs, much like the Pharisees of old. Some adopt a judgmental attitude, condemning others for their past sins while forgetting that we are all in need of grace. Romans 3:23 reminds us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” It is essential to remember that we are not called to judge others for their past but to extend the grace we ourselves have received.

Consider the question: Is it a sin if I divorced and remarried before I was saved? According to the law, one might argue that it is. However, in Christ, we are offered grace and redemption. Romans 8:1 declares, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, we are set free from the law of sin and death. Our past sins are forgiven, and we are given a new identity in Him.

Our convictions differ based on the condition of our hearts. If someone feels compelled to divorce, it may indicate a deeper issue within their heart. A true believer, walking closely with Christ, should seek to uphold the sanctity of their marriage. Yet, if a person has divorced and remarried and then accepted Christ, they are forgiven. Their marriage, once rooted in sin, can become a blessing to others when grounded in the Word of God.

Building a Relationship with God

When we build a relationship with God through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and the application of His Word into our actions, we begin to shift our focus. Instead of seeking signs and wonders or the fleeting pleasures of this world, we seek to walk continuously in the presence of the Lord. As Psalm 16:11 states, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

We recognize His wondrous glory and drop to our knees in repentance, accepting the Holy Spirit's conviction of our sins. We begin to work alongside the Holy Spirit, cultivating a repentant heart. In this process, our self-righteousness fades, and the characteristics of Christ begin to manifest in our lives. Galatians 5:22-23 reminds us of the fruit of the Spirit: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”

As we transform, we find ourselves no longer filled with anxiety, fear, anger, or bitterness. Instead, we experience peace and enjoy the abundance of life that God has promised us. John 10:10 tells us, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.”

Though evil still prevails in the world, we need not fear. We are protected by our mighty and good Father. In Isaiah 41:10, God reassures us: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

We no longer engage in petty debates, for we find our rest in God. Instead, we proclaim His love and share our testimonies about what Jesus has done in our lives. We begin to shine the truth of Christ and reveal the wonders of God's Kingdom to those around us.

A Call to Examine Our Hearts

So, if you find yourself focused on the things of this world and believe the end is near, it’s time to ask yourself whether you truly have a relationship with God and whether you are walking with His Spirit. If you are not, it is not too late. Call upon Jesus, seek His forgiveness, and ask the Holy Spirit to open and expose your heart.

Do not resist what is revealed; instead, accept the truth of your sins and confess them. Welcome the Holy Spirit to teach you how to approach the Father. Pour out your heart to Him and listen as He directs you and leads you daily in life. Through His love and patience, you will overcome.

It is about a willingness to let go of your own understanding and allow the understanding of God's divine wisdom to lead you. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

The Transformative Power of the Holy Spirit

When we accept and welcome Jesus and allow the works of the Holy Spirit, we are baptized in the Spirit. We begin to see the will of God and become golden in living out His Word, aligning our hearts to His. We no longer worry about what is happening on earth but rejoice as we look upward to heaven, seeing the treasures stored for us, waiting for us to finish this race of life in our faithful relationship with Jesus.

As Matthew 25:34 reminds us, “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.’” Those who seek to do His will and bless others will indeed be welcomed into the kingdom of heaven.

In these uncertain times, let us strive to deepen our relationship with God, letting His grace and truth transform us from the inside out. Together, we can navigate the chaos of this world, shining as beacons of hope and love in a darkened age.