Vital Signs: Sunday, June 22, 2025

Thankfulness in Tumultuous Times

“The best prayer in all the world is a prayer that is full of thankfulness.” — Charles Spurgeon

“For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah.’ They will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately. Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come.” - Matthew 24:5–8 NLT

Though our days are chaotic and appear bleak to the human eye, I rejoice and give thanks that our redemption is drawing near. The Bible has never lied and never will. It clearly speaks of these perilous times. Our rejoicing becomes real when we are reminded that God will never leave us or forsake us, regardless of what unfolds around us. I also rejoice in the fact that while Christ has not yet returned for His Church, there is still time for those who do not yet belong to Him.

There is no time for panic. Only time for prayer and the sharing of the good news of the gospel.