What actions can we take to prevent spiritual desolation in our communities? Lament that Reveals a Need “ ‘I will take up weeping and wailing for the mountains and a lament for the pastures of the wilderness, because they are laid waste so that no one passes through; the lowing of cattle is not heard. The birds of the air and the beasts have fled; they are gone.’ ” (Jeremiah 9:10) Why Desolation Comes • Persistent, unrepentant sin (Jeremiah 9:13–14) • Rejection of God’s Word (Jeremiah 9:12) • Complacency and self-reliance (Hosea 13:6) Actions That Guard Our Communities • Return to humble repentance – “If My people who are called by My name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven…” (2 Chronicles 7:14) – Regular times of personal and corporate confession keep hearts soft and receptive. • Saturate life with Scripture – “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you…” (Colossians 3:16) – Public reading of Scripture, home devotions, memorization, and preaching that explains the text verse by verse. • Cultivate fervent, united prayer – “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) – Schedule prayer gatherings, form prayer partners, keep updated lists of community needs, and celebrate answered prayer together. • Stir one another to holiness – “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not forsaking our meeting together…” (Hebrews 10:24-25) – Small groups that practice accountability, mentoring relationships, and compassionate correction restore wanderers (James 5:19-20). • Engage in visible witness and service – “You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:13-16) – Serve the poor, uphold justice, defend the unborn, honor marriage, and share the gospel clearly and lovingly in everyday conversations. • Preserve doctrinal clarity – “Contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.” (Jude 3) – Teach sound doctrine, refute error, and train believers to think biblically on cultural issues. Hope in God’s Promise Desolation is not the final word. God delights to restore what sin ruins (Joel 2:25-27). As communities heed His voice, the wasteland becomes fruitful again, and the song of life returns. |
    |