Troublesome times are here…

The opening line to a song I remember hearing as a child, singing with a quartet several years ago, and currently playing on my car’s stereo. R. E. Winsett wrote that song in 1942. I can only imagine what current events might have been in his mind as he penned those lyrics.

Troublesome times are here…

Yes, indeed. If you are not convinced of this, you are probably not paying attention. As the words to that song run through my head at this moment, I am reminded of a few key truths.

First, this is a disturbing reality. Sometimes, just looking at the newsfeed is all I can take. Maybe you feel the same way.

But then, hasn’t our world always seen distress since sin entered in the Garden? A wedge driven between God and His creation, Cain & Abel, physical suffering, societal conflict, slavery, abuse of power. The list goes on, and at every period of our history there have been troubled times. Certainly, we see it around the world today and in our own backyards.

Where do we turn for assurance or relief? Government or political movements? Is anyone really convinced that is the answer? The goodness of mankind? Even the optimist probably would not recommend that as a source of hope. In the midst of troublesome times we should join the psalmist in declaring that our hope is in the Lord alone (Psalm 39:7; 62:5).

Second, we have an opportunity. I have often said that as the days grow darker spiritually it becomes increasingly easier for true believers in Christ to shine as lights for Him. Simply fulfilling the basics of our Christian walk should set us apart in stark contrast to the world. Love like Christ loves us. Make decisions with wisdom and integrity. Keep your promises. Lead with humility and a servant’s heart. Demonstrate genuine forgiveness. Show compassion to those who are hurting. Share the Gospel with the lost.

I met a man recently who shared many of the disappointments he had experienced in his dealings with those that claimed to know Christ. Sinful conduct, calloused responses, both willful and unintentional harm. It sure sounded like the people who claimed to represent Christ had done a poor job of it. His perception and reception of Christ was tainted by people. Our opportunity as ambassadors of Christ is to present a clear testimony of His goodness in the middle of troublesome times.

The final thought relates to the theme and message of that song itself. The chorus joyfully proclaims, “Jesus is Coming Soon!” Rather than simply viewing that as our ultimate escape clause to leave this troubled world, we ought to consider the urgency and challenge of that truth. He is coming again, but has put us here to serve Him until then. Another song asks, “What if it were today?” We must obey and serve with all of our being in each of our remaining moments.

Long before Winsett penned the song’s lyrics, God’s Word gave us His divine promise:

And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. Revelation 22:12

As we echo the words of John may we also seize the opportunities of each new day. Even so, come, Lord Jesus (Rev. 22:20).