Are WE in the End Times??? If so, WHY should we keep trying to do right? The answer to that depends on your definition or belief of that era. The easy answer is that we are closer than back in the days of Jesus and the Apostles. But that is only a technical and chronological answer. The theological answer to that question is MUCH more complicated and subject to how we read and interpret the prophecies. I believe that we ARE on the threshold of what is referred to as “the tribulation” . Too many physical, technological, meteorological, political and spiritual events are coming together to dismiss this inevitability. Regardless of your position, I believe that we should seek to adhere to our walk as though we are at the “11th Hour”. As in Jesus’ illustration in the bridesmaids parable awaiting the groom, we do not know when HE will call us to the marriage supper. Our talents skills and responsibilities should be honed and executed in the “event “ is upon us.
Why should we keep learning and growing if the “end” is near? – First of all, the 2nd Coming of Christ is NOT the end to all – It is the beginning. I have studied the scripture and have not found that our tasks will end after we die/resurrected. The Great Praise Service in Heaven is only a portion of our service. We are not to be only hearers of the WORD, but DOERS as well. Our honor and service to our LORD will include providing services and fellowship with our fellow believers. While the obstacles of our labors will be removed in the binding of Satan, the exercise and effort remains. Paul said that this life should be viewed as a training camp for eternity. I read that as there will be things that we will be expected to DO in the Heavenly Kingdom. I do not think that we will be lounging about on clouds, strumming harps. Even after our spiritual transformation into the KINGDOM, our service and worship to our CREATOR will include our effort and work (Just without the “weeds and thorns”) We were created to manage the earth and to commune with GOD, that purpose will carry on into our eternal destiny. That is why when we have nothing to do, we get bored and into trouble. GOD knows that and provides us with tasks and responsibilities. Our spirit and our soul bears the essence of our existence, that includes the fruits of our labors. Although we cannot understand it at this time, I believe that our efforts here, in this life, will carry forward into our eternal calling.
When I was in the US Navy, we trained and trained and trained. Some of that training was never directly used, but the discipline of that training carried into other areas that were not directly addressed. This may be the same concept in Life. We should train like we fight and fight like we are trained. Athletes train hard for their events. Paul uses that analogy as well. We should train our spirits and our souls to fight against the principalities of the world with the goal of being able to transform from a sin-filled environment to a world that is ruled completely in God’s Will and Light. Imagine someone like ME trying to compete in the Super Bowl!!! Not only would I fail miserably, but I would not survive the first play!
Are YOU involved in an Eternal Training Program? Check out the link in the right bar called “Plan of Salvation” to learn how to get started in this training program.
Until the next time ….
Jesus is Risen!!!
May God Bless You and Yours
Gene
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