Coping in a Troubled World

“And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” Revelation 21:3-4

We live in a world filled with violence, strife, and all manner of evil. Young people are committing suicide because they have no hope of a better future. Mass murders have increased in our nation during the past few years. Children and young people have had their lives cut off before they had a chance to reach their full potential. Who knows what great things they may have accomplished if some misguided person had not decided to take their life?

How do we cope with what is going on in our world? For those of us who have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, we find hope and peace in knowing that He is in complete control of this world. You see, we have read the back of the Book and we know that everything works out well in the end.

Jesus came to earth over two thousand years ago and paid the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of the world. He gave His life on the Cross of Calvary, then rose again so that we might have eternal life. As He ascended into the heavens, He made a promise that He would return one day, and His kingdom would be set up here on Earth.

While here on earth He taught His disciples about what would happen in the last days before His return. As we read the scriptures, and listen to the news each day, we realize that these things are coming to pass. He told His disciples when they saw these things happening, they should look up for His coming was near.

We know that the Word of God is true, and we can expect turmoil and strife before He returns. But we do not live in fear. Covered by His grace, and trusting in His Word, we know that whatever comes, His grace is sufficient for us. Though things around us may change, Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. The following scriptures give us hope:

I Corinthians 2:9 “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”

Romans 8:18 “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”

Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever.”

I Peter 5:7 “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”

Because we know and worship the Lord, we look forward to His coming and the beautiful future that awaits us. We have read the back of the book and we win.

Prayer: Jesus, we are so thankful that we are not without hope in this world today. We thank You that You are in complete control and that we can trust Your promise of eternal life.

Devotion by Anne Johnston