It seems that nearly all of the stories on the news today are bad. From weather to politics, from rioting to murder, it seems the news stations can pick from a wide range of heartache and terror to hold our attention, amping up our anxiety levels.
And, it does seem that the whole world is experiencing an increase in troubling times.
From an assassination in Japan to church burnings and murders in Nicaragua, from skyrocketing gas prices to mass shootings at town parades, what are we to do to face these times—and to find joy while we endure them?
Here are just a few things the Bible tells us:
1. Trust in the Lord and in His Son Jesus. If there is one thing the Bible tells us, it is this. We can trust in God always. He is with us at all times. If He doesn’t take us out of bad times, He goes through them with us. Even in the worst of circumstances, He is there. He is our Anchor, our Shield, our Father and our Friend. He is everything we need. Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10 ESV)
2. Anticipate bad times and prepare. They will come to each of us, and we will often have little or no warning. Because we know this, during the good times, we should prepare for the bad times. Create margin in your lives through stored food, some savings, and a “what if” plan. Wise people store up the best food and olive oil. But, foolish people eat up everything they have. (Proverbs 21:20 NRV).
3. Practice holiness and do good to others wherever and whenever we can. In all times, but especially in hard times, the world looks at those who profess faith in God to see how they act. Act with grace. Be generous. Share your faith. Love others. Remember that we are Christ-bearers, and so we need to ask ourselves regularly how Jesus would behave in these circumstances—and act accordingly. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 4:29, NIV)
4. Meet regularly with Other Christians. We are told in Scripture that we are one body with Christ and that it is important that we assemble regularly together with other believers. We need to worship God collectively. We need the support of other Christians who pray for and with us. We need other Christians to strengthen us when we are weak, so that we might strengthen others when we can. Together, we can join our resources to have a bigger impact. These are just a few of the many reasons why we should attend church and assemble regularly with other Christians. Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (Hebrew 10:25 ESV).
The Bible has a great deal to say about preparing for and enduring bad times. In the end, if we follow these four steps, we will come out of bad times even stronger and will reflect the goodness of the God we serve.