Written By Lesallan – July 9, 2023
Are things now as difficult as they were for the Prophets in the Old Testament?
Many people face difficult challenges in our modern world that can cause them to question the presence of a higher power and the possibility of a positive future. It may seem as though we live in a disheartening and bleak era, reminiscent of the struggles faced by the Prophets in the Old Testament.
In that era, the Prophets were revered as messengers of the divine who conveyed God’s words to the people. Their crucial role was to warn individuals about the consequences of their sins and encourage them to seek redemption. They also prophesied about the coming of the Messiah, who would bring salvation and establish peace and justice, while promising restoration and blessings for those who followed divine guidance.
Throughout history, the Prophets have suffered for sharing God’s truth. They faced persecution, rejection, ridicule, and even death. They watched as their nations declined and fell, and witnessed wars, famines, plagues, and natural disasters. On a personal level, the Prophets also endured loneliness, depression, doubt, and fear.
But they also saw God’s faithfulness, power, and love. They saw Him perform miracles, deliver His people, and fulfill His promises. They saw Him raise a faithful remnant who remained loyal to Him. They saw Him preserve His word and His covenant. They saw Him prepare the way for the coming of His Son.
So, are times as tough now as during the times of the Prophets? The answer may depend on how we look at our situation. If we focus on the negative aspects of our world, such as violence, corruption, injustice, oppression, disease, and death, we may feel hopeless and despairing. But we may find hope and encouragement if we focus on God’s presence, sovereignty, and grace. God is still in control. He is not surprised or overwhelmed by anything that happens in our world. He has a plan and a purpose for everything He allows or causes. He works all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
God still cares. He loves us with an everlasting love that nothing can separate us from (Jeremiah 31:3; Romans 8:38-39). He knows our needs and struggles and can help us in our time of need (Hebrews 4:15-16). He comforts us in our affliction, so that we can comfort others with the comfort we receive from Him (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
God still gives hope. He has not abandoned us or forsaken us. He is with us always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). He has given us His Spirit, who guides us into all truth, teaches us all things, reminds us of His words, convicts us of sin, righteousness, and judgment, testifies of Christ, glorifies Christ, and intercedes for us (John 14:26; 15:26; 16:7-15; Romans 8:26-27). He has given us His word, which is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). It is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). It is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105).
God still fulfills His promises. He is faithful and true. He does not lie or change His mind. He keeps every word that He has spoken (Numbers 23:19; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18). He has promised never to leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). He has promised to give us wisdom if we ask Him (James 1:5). He has promised to supply all our needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). He has promised to forgive us our sins if we confess them (1 John 1:9). He has promised to give us eternal life if we believe in His Son (John 3:16).
God still sends His Son. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). He is the fulfillment of all the prophecies of the Old Testament. He is the Messiah who came to save us from our sins by dying on the cross and rising from the dead. He is the Lord who reigns over all things and will come again to judge the living and the dead. He is the Savior who loves us and gave Himself for us. He is the Friend who sticks closer than a brother. He is the High Priest who intercedes for us. He is the King who invites us to share in His glory.
So, are times as tough now as during the Prophets? They are, or perhaps they are not. But one thing is certain: God is still the same. He is still our Creator, our Redeemer, our Father, our Shepherd, our Rock, our Refuge, our Strength, our Shield, our Deliverer, our Helper, our Hope, and our Joy. He is still worthy of our trust, worship, obedience, and love. He is still the God of the Prophets, and He is still the God of us.
In today’s world, we may face challenges similar to those of the Prophets. Yet, we can find solace and motivation by turning to God’s unwavering presence, authority, and kindness. God still holds the reins, watches over us, inspires us, and keeps His word. He has bestowed upon us His Spirit, teachings, and Son to lead and console us.
No matter what challenges we face, we can still trust in God as our Creator, Redeemer, Father, Shepherd, Rock, Refuge, Strength, Shield, Deliverer, Helper, Hope, and Joy. He was the God of the Prophets and is still our God today.
Blessings!
Written by Lesallan – July 9, 2023
