Ebola! Ebola! FEAR NOT!!
The news today constantly focuses on bad news. Each day there is a new article about the spread and danger of Ebola. The first day the Ohio Ebola Hotline was opened, they received 400 calls. Americans are fearful that the Ebola virus will be pandemic in the US. Six articles appeared in the newspaper within five days. TV is even worse in breeding fear in our country.
Other news this week included the harrowing effects of climate change: hurricane devastation, drought and limited harvest of food, impending extinction of marine life..in addition to fracking-related earthquakes and pollution of our water supply. Yikes!! It can be overwhelming, leaving people worried and anxious about becoming a victim. Fear is increasing with each news item.
At the same time, electronic technology is becoming more advanced. Pets can receive a microchip beneath their skin so they can be returned to their owners if lost. We use credit and debt cards to make payments, instead of using cash, and most of us use a reward card to get a discount on an item, simply by scanning a bar code. Could the day be far away when we just scan a microchip embedded in our hand to buy and sell?
Not surprisingly, some people believe these are signs of the End Times.The book of Revelation predicts plagues, drought, earthquakes, one third of the sea creatures will die. Our drinking water will be too polluted to drink. Everyone will need to have the "mark of the beast" on our hand in order to buy or sell. More and more books, TV shows and movies are gearing up to "prepare" us for doomsday. Some evangelists have even predicted the date when tribulation will come. In Luke 21:8, Jesus said, "Watch out that you are not deceived."
Heaven and Earth shall pass away... but of that day and hour no man knows, not the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. (Matt.24:35-36) Throughout history there have been earthquakes, famines and pestilence, some far greater than we see now. Jesus said do not worry about your life. Who of you, by worrying, can add a single hour to his life? (Matt 6:25 & 27, 17:7,28:10) Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow." (Matt. 6:34.)
So, do not worry about Ebola or whatever the next pandemic may be. Throughout the gospels Jesus repeats "Take courage! Don't be afraid! " (Matt 14:27.) Why does He insist, that no matter what happens, we are not to be afraid or worried? The Lamb (Jesus) will overcome those who war against us because He is Lord of lords and King of kings - and with Him will be His faithful followers. (Rev.17:14) "He who's faith stands firm to the end will be saved." (Matt 24:13) We will overcome tribulation by the the Blood of the Lamb and by our testimony. This calls for wisdom and patient endurance on our part; obey God's commandments and remain faithful to Jesus. (Rev. 12:11 & 14:12)
And so, my dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
no matter what happens in this world, sleep well and Fear Not!!
Peace Be With You, Christine
no matter what happens in this world, sleep well and Fear Not!!
Peace Be With You, Christine
Oh, and if you're not yet a member of God's family, join us. There's always room for one more! Romans 10:9-10 explains how:
That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord,"and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
