LEARNING DAILY

1 Chronicles 12:32, of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, ….

I began reading through 1 Chronicles a few days ago. Actually, it might be more like I skipped through all the genealogies in the first ten chapters or so. When reading about those who found David and gave their support to him as King over all Israel, the verse above about the “sons of Issachar” caught my attention. They are described as men “who had understanding of the times”. This statement seems to say they knew what they needed to do – in this case they needed to join David. Being in agreement with what God is doing is a must in order to join with Him.

The sons of Issachar understood what was happening in the world they lived in. That statement makes me wonder how well Believers understand the times we live in today. Do Believers today look at what is happening around them and in the world today to try to understand from God’s perspective? These men understood and acted accordingly by joining David.

The Bible gives us a great amount of information on what is going to be happening in the last days. Yes, I believe these are the last of the last days. Matthew 24 is a chapter where the Lord Jesus gives a great amount of information concerning the days before the rapture of His Church. Skeptics will say that these events have been happening for many years. Believers will be in prayer and study to hear from God about these things occurring. Wars, rumor of wars, deception, pestilence, famine, earthquakes, the love of many growing cold, the unbelievable rise in immorality and shamelessness have all increased so much. Are Believers discerning the times? If so, what are Believers doing?

The April 8 eclipse is drawing much attention as a final warning for the United States. Is it so? I don’t know! There are those who are drawing comparisons to Jonah his mission to Ninevah. When he finally got there with God’s message to repent, the people of Ninevah did so. The comparison to the coming eclipse is that there was an eclipse at the time Jonah was speaking his message of repentance and this coming eclipse will pass over nine cities named Ninevah in the United States. Is this someone’s idea or really a message from God warning the people this is the last chance for America?

God is sovereign! He is on His throne in control of all things that happen! All things He does or allows to happen works out for the good of His people (Romans 8:28). That tells me, He is not troubled by events happening around us. These things tell me we must be spending time in His Word and in prayer. All Believers must be sure they are ready and stay ready for whatever is ahead. As the “sons of Issachar” joined David, Believers must make sure their life is what the Lord Jesus Christ desires. Put the Lord Jesus Christ, His kingdom and His righteousness before everything else in your life.  Act like you have placed your trust in Him alone. Live in His joy and bring the light of His life to those around you who live in darkness! Regardless of whether or not the end of days as we know them are near, live as children of God by seeking His daily directions for your life as you walk the narrow way into His kingdom!