How to Deal with a World in Crisis

www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org

There is no doubt that we are currently facing some dire and dark days for everyone. No one is exempt contrary to popular belief. If you’ve noticed or have been watching the news (at the time of this post), Hurricane Harvey hit the coast and devastated parts of Texas such as Houston, Beaumont, Rockport, Corpus Christi, and surrounding areas (my heart, prayers, and assistance goes out to them as I know what it’s like to live through a major hurricane disaster – Hurricane Katrina). But there’s also and all of sudden racial tension, new political fights, the threat of a nuclear war, and eventually, there will be a stronger persecution for us as believers, so get ready for that.

Yet, that’s not it! Unfortunately, many in the body of Christ (the church) are at war with one another on various issues and topics which cause more and more division vs. focusing on fulfilling the Great Commission, showing love to one another, helping each other with our gifts and talents, personal transformation, and strengthening our faith and fellowship. There are so many arguments spewing over conversations at work, in the church, coffee shops, and over social media. So much so, that it’s not only heartbreaking, but a lot of the reactions or responses are contrary to the Word of God. With that being said, if you haven’t realized that we’re living in the last days by now, I don’t know what to say, sis. Because we are!

The Apostle Paul warned us of these days in 2 Timothy 3:1-5 saying, “…in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving, they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that.”

I believe this passage of Scripture covers the world and the church as it relates to living in the last days. Do you see any of the things described in the Scripture above happening today? How about in your own life? In either case, repentance is necessary.

And even though we see that these days are getting darker (as the Bible predicted would happen before Christ returns) and as the love of many is waxing cold and people are becoming very vile, there is a way to deal with a country, and I might add,  a world in crisis. It will take us, as Christians, to start shining brighter in the home, church, and especially the world.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world-like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then put it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”

It’s time to turn your light up higher, sis. Our response to everything that’s happening around us as Christians should be different than the world’s response. We need to be letting our good deeds shine forth, so that others will praise God because they see Him working in and through us. We will need to smile more, love deeper, treat others right regardless of culture, religious background, or race (remember God has no favorites), and grow in the Word and character in these last days, so that we will have the proper response to everyone we encounter whether he or she be a fellow believer or someone who is unsaved.

Jesus never promised that life would be easy down here for us (He totally knows that from experience as well as the early disciples). So that’s why He left us with these words to encourage us in John 16:33, “…Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” Be encouraged my sister, and shine brighter than ever before, because in the end, we will overcome too!

Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!

~Courtnaye

QUESTION: How are you handling things in your area, sis? Does everything that's happening around you bother you to some extent? If so, in what ways and how can you help? Also, if you need prayer, let me know here or you can email me directly @ insideoutwithcourtnaye@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you and praying for you.

ALSO, just want to encourage you to grab my NEW book, “IDENTIFIED: Knowing Who You Are in Christ & Moving Forward in Your Purpose!” ORDER IT TODAY right here! And if you already have it and have read it, please give me a REVIEW on Amazon.com. Thanks so much in advance.

*Tune in every Monday at 7:30am for new posts, “Like” my Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutWCourtnaye), and follow me on Twitter at https://twitter.com/InOutwCourtnaye. Also, share this blog with friends, family, co-workers, or your women’s group or ministry. I’d love to stay connected and help more women grow in the Lord! Thanks again and may God be with you!