THE following story sets the stage: “On August 14, 1989, Time reported the sad story of a man from East Detroit who died of fear. He had taken several fur trapping expeditions over the years and had been bitten by his share of ticks. Then he heard about Lyme disease, which is carried by deer ticks. He became obsessed with the fear that he had been bitten in the past by a tick with Lyme disease and that he had passed the disease to his wife. Doctors tested him and assured him he didn’t have Lyme disease and that, even if he did, the disease was virtually impossible to transmit to his wife. But the man didn’t believe the doctors. Paranoid, because of the disease, the man killed his wife and then himself… Fear distorts a person’s sense of reality. Fear consumes a person’s energy and thoughts. Fear controls.” Leadership Journal
Danger: Fearful Times Ahead
Before Jesus’ sacrificial death, He pointed the attention of His disciples to the beloved temple and informed them of its impending collapse. “Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.” Matthew 24:2. This temple was the replacement of Solomon’s temple which was destroyed by the Babylonians many years before. It represented the pride of the nation and was the centre of worship. To some, it had become their object of worship. To hear such a prediction must have sent shockwaves through the spines of the disciples. Considering the past concerning the fall of the first temple, as well as the bleak description of what was to come, Jesus may have looked like a billboard that read: Danger, Fearful times ahead!
Today the message is more relevant than ever. Revelation describes dramatic events that are to occur before the Son of God returns. Just before Satan is finally silenced through the clear presentation of God’s gospel there will be fearful times. “For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power.” 2 Timothy 3:2-4.
Rest Area Next Exit
Like any journey, rest is necessary to refuel and recharge. On this journey, as He prepared the disciples back then, God is preparing His people today. In Mattew 24:6 He encouraged His followers with the words: “See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” Knowing of the provision provided and the greater purpose to be fulfilled, their hearts were not to be troubled. By remaining in tune with eternity, they were guarded from being overcome by the events of the present.
Let’s look at the meaning of the Greek word translated troubled. It is used in the New Testament to describe a state of being troubled or alarmed, often in response to external events or news that causes fear or anxiety. It conveys a sense of emotional disturbance or agitation.
Of the same account, Luke adds: “…men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” Luke 21:26.
Now let’s look at the meaning of the Greek word used for fainting: to describe a physical or emotional state of fainting or losing heart. It conveys the idea of becoming overwhelmed to the point of losing consciousness or courage. In a biblical context, it often refers to a spiritual or emotional condition where one’s faith or resolve is severely tested.
With these definitions in mind, it seems that the children of God are to be so invested in the Divine will, so one with Him, that hope is not lost when the things that unsettled the confidence of most come to pass. “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:2.
As we learn to rest in Jesus and are refreshed by the unveiling truths regarding the character of God we are strengthened for the difficulties along the way.
God Is Able
The only antidote for fear is trust (faith). How could we not trust a God who has given us so much evidence of His unfailing love for us, willingness to provide and ability to perform His word? He sits at the end of eternity and has issued the report that we will be there with Him if we choose to abide in Him now. God is able and willing to teach us what we need to know to overcome the lies of Satan. Let’s be encouraged with these inspired words:
“Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” Whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left.” Isaiah 30:21
“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” John 14:3
And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:18-20
“Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever.” Amen. Jude 24,25.