Understanding The Times

Jacob’s ninth son had many descendants. There were 200 men, referred to as “chiefs” as they were known for their combination of wisdom and leadership. The people of Israel looked to them for leadership and guidance as to which way they should go forward… “From the tribe of Issachar, there were men who understood the times and knew what Israel should do; 200 chiefs, with all their relatives under their command” (1 Chronicles 12:32).

How did they become so wise and understanding of their times? It didn’t just happen magically, it represented time, effort, prayer for discernment, and a knowledge of God’s ways. Very few people nowadays put the effort in to hear from God. This isn’t a “gift” given to only certain people, but to anyone willing to put in the effort…   “If any man lacks this wisdom, let him ask it of God, who gives to all men liberally, without reproach, and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith without doubting…” (James 1:5,6). 

Jesus rebuked the people for being completely oblivious to the “signs of their times” all around them…   “You see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going to rain,’ and it does. And when the south wind blows you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?” (Luke 12:54-56). 

The signs of Jesus’ imminent return are all around us. Let’s just look at three specific signs. Luke 21:20-28 tells of many signs (please read them), but specifically a day when Israel is “surrounded by enemies,” and it is. A lawless day and age will arise, filled with abusive, slanderous, unholy people, that are brutal in their conduct and have no self-control. We see this every single day on our news feeds (1 Timothy 3:1-5). Lastly, “When we see “the fig tree blossom: Matthew 24:32)… which represents Israel becoming a nation in May 1948, and reclaiming full control over Jerusalem in 1967, the “generation that sees this happen will not pass away until they see it (the Rapture) happen” (Matthew 24:33-34). 

Friends, we are on the cusp of Jesus’ return. May we be like the sons of Issachar, alert, aware and vocal for His name’s sake. Time is short.

(Devotional by Cheryl Hall-Laos)