Beware of false prophets, who come to you
in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. Matthew 7:15
For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in
power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of
men we were among you for your sake. And you became followers of us and of the
Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit,
so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe.”
I Thessalonians 1:5-7
I Thessalonians 1:5-7
We live in a world
full of darkness. In India, we experienced living in a dark environment full of
idol worship, satanic rituals, and false gods. In Ukraine, oppression and
extreme poverty have created strongholds among the people. Many Ukrainians are
just trying to survive since the fall of communism, with most people earning
$130 a month or less.
The younger
generation of Ukrainians were born in freedom and uses it to reject God and
live as they please. The older generation struggles to survive and find
meaning. Alcoholism is a huge problem and there is a strong feeling of
depression in the air. The extreme poverty, depression, and rejection of
religion and God contribute to the darkness, very different from India, but
still lost. Lost without knowledge of our Savior. Satan keeps them oppressed
and without hope.
False teachers take
advantage and offer a false hope. Even in America, people have given way to
socially acceptable idolatry, worshiping self, and putting their hope in
achieving the American dream. Regardless of our living conditions, religion, or
status, we know that without Christ there is no hope.
However, we do have
hope in Jesus and we want others to know that hope found only in Him. As 1
Thessalonians 1:5 says, “For our gospel did not come to you
in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance,
as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.”
Lord, I pray
that missionaries around the world and those of us here at home will show the
light of Christ to those we meet and that they will find hope in the Savior. I
pray that the lies of false teachers and religions will be exposed and that the
Truth will set the captives free. Show me how You want me to share this hope. I
want to give more than words. I want others to know, see, feel, and experience
the love of their Creator!
