Discontentment is one of the few things almost universally shared throughout the entirety of the Earth’s population. The world groans with the corruption of sin, and only the most depraved can deceive themselves into ignorance of it. For those of us with hope for Eternity, our discontentment may be a mere awareness, or a mourning for the ongoing effects of our curse; but for those who struggle with temporal mindedness, the inconveniences and injustices of existence are sure to continually press upon the heart. This can be perceived in social expression and cultural focus, but is also likely to be exhibited in general conversation, as people tend to gravitate towards the things they are worried over.
Jesus said, “do not be anxious about tomorrow” (Matthew 6:34), but it’s not such a simple matter to cease worldly concern. Reminders of mankind’s imperfection surround us every day. Life’s trials are used by God for our benefit, but they do not tend to be pleasant to experience. And as the world becomes ever more distant from the character of its Creator, the darkness of evil deepens and spreads, oft times seeming an inescapable inevitability heralding the final end. If we only see what is before us, we must surely despair, for there can be no salvation in the world’s efforts.
Yet in the midst of such discouraging signs, we may find encouragement in evidences of God’s enduring sovereignty. In spite of ongoing conflicts and the propagation of sin across the world, there remain those who proclaim the truth, and many who continue in faithfulness. We know that no effort of man is sufficient for endurance through such spiritual calamity, but it is the power of God that preserves His will and protects His people, and in Him true hope is founded. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your won doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:8-10)
Remember in these times the omnipotent God in whom the course of history is secured. Look beyond the present corruption, and seek communion with the Holy Spirit. Rest secure in the knowledge that, whatever may happen, whether the judgement of wars . . . famines and earthquakes (Matthew 24:6-7), or even the stay of mercy in a generation’s revival, in all is God’s will sovereign, such as can nowise be subverted.
Be comforted. TTT