How can we prepare spiritually for the "peace taken from the earth"? “Then another horse went forth, a fiery red one. And its rider was granted power to take peace from the earth, and men would slay one another; and a great sword was given to him.” Standing on the certainty of Scripture’s literal truth, we recognize that global turmoil is coming. Because the Lord tells us in advance, He also shows us how to stand firm when peace is removed. Anchoring Our Hearts in Christ’s Unshakable Peace • John 14:27—“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you… Do not let your hearts be troubled.” • Isaiah 26:3—“You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast mind, because he trusts in You.” Practical steps: – Begin every day rehearsing what His cross and resurrection secured: reconciliation with God (Romans 5:1). – Memorize “peace” verses; speak them aloud when fear rises. – Refuse counterfeit peace that depends on circumstances (Jeremiah 6:14). Immersing Ourselves in the Whole Counsel of God • Psalm 119:165—“Abundant peace belongs to those who love Your law; nothing can make them stumble.” • Matthew 24:35—“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away.” Daily rhythm: – Read broadly—prophecy, gospel promises, wisdom books. – Study deeply—trace themes of war and deliverance to see God’s sovereignty. – Obey immediately—peace grows where the will is surrendered. Guarding the Mind with Heaven’s Armor • Ephesians 6:10–18—belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, readiness of the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the Spirit. Checklist before stepping out the door: 1. Speak truth over lies. 2. Rest in Christ’s righteousness, not performance. 3. Stay alert to share the gospel that brings peace (Romans 10:15). 4. Quench fiery darts with active trust. 5. Set hope on salvation’s finish line. 6. Wield Scripture aloud. Sustained by Constant Prayer • Philippians 4:6–7—prayer and petition guard hearts and minds with God’s peace. • 1 Thessalonians 5:17—“Pray without ceasing.” Practical pattern: – Start with worship; declare who God is. – Bring specific anxieties about violence or instability. – Intercede for authorities (1 Timothy 2:1–2) that we may lead tranquil lives. – Listen; allow the Spirit to align desires with God’s will. Committed to Love and Forgiveness Amid Violence • John 13:35—love marks true disciples. • Romans 12:17–21—overcome evil with good. Cultivating readiness: – Pre-decide to bless those who wrong you. – Keep short accounts; refuse bitterness that fuels conflict. – Practice generosity; meet practical needs when systems unravel (James 2:15–16). Strengthened Through Covenant Community • Hebrews 10:24–25—“not neglecting to meet together… encouraging one another.” Community habits: – Gather faithfully; proclaim Christ’s death until He comes (1 Corinthians 11:26). – Share resources; nobody goes hungry (Acts 2:44–47). – Hold one another accountable to hope, holiness, and courage. Living the Gospel Boldly While Peace Remains • Matthew 24:14—the gospel proclaimed to all nations precedes the end. • 2 Timothy 4:2—“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” Action points: – See every conversation as eternity-weighty. – Support missions that reach conflict zones. – Train your family to articulate the reason for your hope (1 Peter 3:15). Practicing Wise, Hands-On Preparedness • Proverbs 27:12—“A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself.” • 1 Peter 4:7—“The end of all things is near; be clear-minded and self-controlled.” Balanced approach: – Store reasonable supplies (food, water, medicine) without hoarding. – Learn practical skills—first aid, basic repairs, gardening. – Keep vital documents and a physical Bible accessible. – Maintain physical health; stewardship serves spiritual mission. Fixing Our Hope on the Coming Kingdom • Titus 2:13—“while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” • Revelation 21:4—no more death, mourning, crying, or pain. Encouragements: – Regularly meditate on future glory; present afflictions are “light and momentary” (2 Corinthians 4:17). – Sing songs that celebrate the Lamb’s victory (Revelation 5:9–10). – Encourage each other: “The Lord is near” (Philippians 4:5). The Rider will indeed take peace from the earth, yet the Prince of Peace reigns. By rooting ourselves in Christ, His Word, prayer, loving community, and forward-looking hope, we stand ready—calm, courageous, and useful—until He comes. |
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