Wednesday, December 20, 2017

A World of Darkness

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
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!

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