Are You Better Off Than You Were Four Years Ago?

Bethel Mennonite Church – Gladys VA

This question was asked often during the presidential campaign. Even when things aren’t going well, Christians know God is in control and orchestrating world events. Christians are also concerned about their own hearts and their trajectory as pilgrims.

Without — events out there — we believe in a bright and perfect future with Christ, but prophecies warn of hard times first. Regardless of what comes, Revelation 13 makes it clear that God is in control–the power of evil is limited. God will not lose track of any of His children (II Timothy 2:19) and He will never, ever forsake them (Hebrews 13:5).

Within — how am I faring in my Christian pilgrimage? We’re to examine ourselves (II Corinthians 13:5). Some things we can check:

• Are we ready and watchful? (Matthew 24:36-42) There are two exits from this life: death or Christ’s return. We need to take heed to ourselves (Luke 21:34-36) and be prepared. We shouldn’t be lulled into complacency but stay aware and right with God–saying no to sin and yes to Jesus, surrendered, serving, living right, and trusting in His merciful provisions.
• Are we changing? Conversion and being a new creation (II Corinthians 5:17) is only the beginning. Changing from self-centered people to someone who loves God and desires to please Him is a lifelong process. We’re to put off the old selfish ways and put on the new life and fruit of the Spirit (Ephesians 4, Galatians 5). We’re to grow in Christian love toward others (I Thessalonians 3:12).
• Are we separated from the world, on guard against outside influences? Our associations and involvements affect us and can shift our course (I Corinthians 15:33). Paul makes a clear contrast in II Corinthians 6:14-18, instructing us to not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. Psalm 1:1-3 says for us to be fruitful and prosperous, we need to spend time near the water and avoid fraternizing with ungodly and scornful sinners.
• Are we praying? Philippians 4:6-7 says don’t be anxious but pray. Luke 11, with the Lord’s prayer, parable on persistence in prayer, and the ask, seek, and knock passage, encourages us to keep praying. We should pray for the needs of our own souls, and then pray for others too. Prayer changes the person praying. Prayer brings God into needs in ways that don’t happen when we don’t pray.

The King’s orders: (II Peter 1:10 NKJV) Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble.

The King’s assistance: (Philippians 1:6 NKJV) Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.

By God’s grace, let’s live now in such a way that 1000 years from now, we’ll be present with Christ and ever so much better off.

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