Across the world, Christians are being persecuted/killed for their faith. Are American believers ready for something like that here? Or are we too sheltered and think it could never happen? Has the pre-tribulation belief caused us to get complacent in preparing believers for mental, physical, and spiritual warfare like we've never seen?
Are we prepared to stand for Jesus Christ no matter what? Do we have on the Full Armor of God? (Ephesians 6)
This may sound crazy to non-believers. But if it ever came down to anyone killing anyone for their faith and you start seeing it here in America with your own eyes, will that be what makes you wonder if we really are in a battle against more than flesh and blood? Very, very evil rulers, authorities, cosmic powers, and spiritual forces in heavenly places? (Ephesians 6:12)
When the time comes and there's no denying it, call on Jesus Christ. Life is short, eternity is forever. But why wait when Grace extends to each of us right now? Don't wait until "you're good enough". None of us will ever be good enough. Don't wait until you have more proof. For we walk by faith, not by sight.
This is not about whether you're pre-, mid-, or post-tribulation for some kind of rapture, as no man knows the hour of Christ's return.
It's a matter of what's happening right now and what could potentially happen in our lifetimes; if not ours - our children's lifetimes. What are we doing to prepare spiritually, mentally, and physically?
The stage is being set. Some would say it's already set and we're just waiting on the trumpet! Since 9/11, we have to admit things have changed here drastically. With 9/11 came came invasions of other countries, rampant borrowing, and the impending collapse of our financial system. A system designed to fail to usher in the globalized central currency. I digress. I could go on about the signs of the times. Just something to think about as things unfold. Pray for eyes that see and ears that hear. Rest in Him. He is able. His will be done.
The Whole Armor of God - What is it?
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.