Dec 13

We should not let the dismal picture of the way the world will be at the end discourage us from wanting to finish out God's plan for us as individuals in that world. When Jesus was about to leave his disciples and this world, he did not take them with him: He was leaving them behind to finish the work he came to do. This does not mean that we have any part in the work of salvation that Jesus accomplished on the cross. His last words there were, "It is finished" (John 19:30).

Our part in God's eternal plan of salvation is not to accomplish it but to spread the news of its accomplishment by Jesus. That is why we have been left behind.

Another reason we have been left behind and cannot go to be with Jesus immediately is hinted at in John 14:3, where he says that he goes to prepare a place for us. We do not know what preparation Jesus is doing for us right now in heaven, but certainly he is praying to the Father for us to be faithful to him while we remain here below.

"He always lives to intercede for them" (Heb. 7:25).

In this, Jesus is joined by the Spirit, for Romans 8:26 says that the Spirit intercedes for us in groans too great for words.

Though it is a tremendously trying time for the saints left in this world at the end, they are protected and strengthened by the prayers of intercession of the Son and the Spirit to the Father. What an honor to be chosen as one of the last generation of people to inhabit the old earth. We can go forward, not in fear but in assurance that the Lord himself prays for us and strengthens us, so that we not only survive the coming flood of wickedness but gain a great victory for him in the midst of it.

"We are more than conquerors through him who loved us" (Rom. 8:37).

Scripture for today: John 14;1-4; Rom. 8:37
Thought for today: Rather than look for a way to escape the coming darkness, I should look for a way to be a light in that darkness.
Prayer for today: Lord, strengthen me so that I will not be afraid no matter what happens in this world. Let my trust be always in you and help me to be willing to stay here as long as you want me to, saving others till the last moment.

DEC 13