GlocalNet

I was in a Christian Bookstore recently - and from the titles of some of the books and interpretations of current world events - there is a lot of despair, depression, and bleak outlook for the future.  Are these guys really Christians?  They put their hope in global politics and leaders they endorse, they put there hope in certain market realities - if he’s God isn’t he bigger than that?  I wonder if these people have read their Bibles.  Why are they so afraid?  If we know God, have his call on our lives - we don’t have to walk around trembling in fear of every dark shadow that crosses our path.  I’m excited about the future.  Call me “The Happy Millennialist!”  Why?

First, God is real and if he’s real, then he’s in control.  No matter how bad things get - as the old hymn says, “This is my Father’s World.”  The oldest book in the Bible teaches us that nothing can happen without God’s permission.  Why am I depressed, negative, fearful, worrying - when I know who is in charge!

Second, the one in charge has told me the outcome in advance!  He wins!  He even says that there will be tough times but hang in there and endure all the way to the end because he wins.  He’s going to do it in a way that even his enemies will have to confess who he is through the realization of how he acts. 

Third, every tough time makes me stronger and allows me to glorify God in all that I face.  If he’s in control, if he wins, and he loves me - whatever I’m going through is the Father growing me into maturity.  Just like a human Father who disciplines a child, helps the child grow and mature - then I know it’s for my best and I can hang in there. 

Fourth, he lets me be a part of this adventure of reconciliation.  He calls me co-laborer, a royal ambassador, a kingdom citizen, a royal priesthood. WOW! He thinks a lot of us and allows us to be with him on mission.

Fifth, there will be people of every tongue, tribe, and nation before him throughout all eternity!!  I’ll be there with Americans, Africans, Indians, Chinese, Vietnamese, Arabs, Saudi’s, Egyptians, Iranians, Belizeans, Argentineans, Congolese, Germans, Jews, Palestinians, American Indians, Pashtoons, Kurds, Turks, Greeks, Italians . . . .  Can you imagine the incredible food, music, dance!!!  How in God’s name can I be negative, depressed, fearful with all of that. 

Embrace the present, you know the future.  Don’t waste your time with those who would focus on charts and darts - he only told you he’s coming so you can be ready.  This is why James says, whatever suffering we can count for joy.

Can you imagine if we’re pumped, excited, enthused, happy, joyful, Spirit-filled what God can do with us instead of being fearful, dark, doomsday, hopeless - God fills us with joy - not despair.  Get happy today!