Happiness
Sometimes it seems the only information coming to my inbox is negative. It can get pretty depressing! Yet, in the midst of the chaos and darkness we see in this world, we can be (must be) happy people.
One of the keys to emotional health is having a plan for the future, the ability to look past the present situation to something positive. The Bible puts it this way: "Where there is no vision the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he " (Pr 29:18 KJV). One version says: "Without prophetic vision people run wild, but blessed are those who follow {God's} teachings"(Pr 29:18 GW).
Being Prophetic
It doesn't take a prophet to see the problems around us. Pick most anyone off the street and they can do that. However, it is prophetic in nature to look to the future and see the result. The ability to accurately do this comes from a relationship with Jesus and saying what He says; the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy (see Rev. 19:7). As we spend time in the presence of the Lord, we will find faith, wisdom, hope for the future and words to be a prophetic voice to the culture. Meanwhile remember that even in the midst of difficulties Jesus said: "...be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)" - and - "...this is the victory that overcomes the world - our faith" (1 John 5:4).
Taking Action
Yes, we need to recognize and address the problems in our culture, but I sense a heart-cry in the culture that is saying, "I get it, things are bad. What can I do about it!" The desire to take action is a natural part of faith. Even though we are not saved by good works, we were created in Christ for good works (Eph 2:10). Faith without works is dead (James 2:20).
We have heard many people say that the real need in our nation is revival or a great awakening. Again, prophetic insight is not needed to see that. But after repentance and prayer by the people of God, there comes a time when the Christian Message must be presented. But that message must contain more than a mystical mirage beyond the clouds. It must offer a hope for the present world. That is the message Jesus preached, the message of His Kingdom appearing on earth. To present that kind of positive Kingdom message we have developed an outreach tool that you may want to consider. Please check it out HERE.
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