Changes Ahead. . .

Times are changing. . .

All my life I have heard this saying. For the most part, I ignored it. The older generations have always fought against the changes and lifestyle of the younger generation.  New music, new dances, and new styles of dress are probably the three most prevalent through the years. These changes have caused more parent/child conflict than any other has. 

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Other changes are far more serious. . .

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 2 Peter 3:3 (NASB)
3 Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts,

Christians have always faced mockers. America, however, has always been free from the hardcore persecution meted out in other parts of the planet. Most of us have lived in our own little world. We read our Bible, go to church and live our lives oblivious to the changes.  Yet, anyone with half a brain can tell you that times are most certainly changing and with ever-increasing speed.

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Recently, a friend (I will call her Debbie) spoke about a challenge she had in dealing with a certain woman whom she must work with once a month. This woman is an atheist. She insisted that Debbie not speak of God or say anything that would reflect her “ridiculous” faith.

Debbie’s answer to her was, “I will not deny Christ. If I deny Him before you, He might deny me before His Father.” The woman had not pushed the issue. However, each time they work together, the woman goes to bizarre lengths to deride Debbie’s beliefs. The woman makes fun of her, tells vulgar jokes and laughs aloud at her embarrassment. It is very stressful for Debbie.
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As Christians, we are filled with the love of Christ. God’s word encourages us to share the truth of Christ and the miracle of His love with everyone. Debbie feels, in her heart, that it is our loving duty to witness to others. She asked, “How do we witness to sinners, when we are not allowed to mention God?”

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If Satan has delighted in creating barriers to this mission throughout the ages, he must surely be having a party now. 

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​Atheism has moved out of the shadows and into the light. In this time of absurd political correctness, non-believers have acquired a new boldness in their quest to stifle the voice of Christians.  Atheists may not believe in God or Satan. However, Satan surely uses them for his evil purpose.  They are as responsible as religious extremists in the persecution of Christians. 

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2 Timothy 3:1-3 
1But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. 2 For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good,

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Times are rapidly changing. . .

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So, how do we witness, when we cannot speak? Our life, our actions, must reflect our Christian walk. Be assured that people watch you. Good looks for the goodness and hope in you. Evil looks for ever little mistake you make. 

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I love this Christian Acronym.
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C –Compassionate
H –Helpful
R –Righteous
I –Inspirational
S –Servant
T –Testimony
I –Intercessor
A –Ambassador
N-Nurturing

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Strength and wisdom is always found in God’s Word. Just as the Bible predicted the type of evil to be found today, it provides truth to guide us through these perilous times.

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2 Timothy 3:12-17 
12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. 13 But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them, 15 and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is [a]inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.

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God's word repeatedly urges us to stand. Put on your armor and stand with God, other Christians and 10,000 angels. Next time you feel persecuted or deflated by Satan's fiery darts, remember, You are never alone!