We need Jesus.  Yet, as economic indicators improve we predictably move into a mind-state consistent with overwhelming self-focus.  I hear every day from Christians, “I can overcome”, “I can get it done if I am really focused” and, “I am getting better”, nothing unfortunately uttered about God.  Revivals are pep talks if there are revivals at all.  Prayer is reduced to time asking God to intervene for aunt Ethel’s bursitis and worship is often rushed to accommodate the patience levels of parishioners.  But, God said that the apostasy must happen otherwise the son of perdition may never show himself.  So, I am stuck in a difficult place emotionally; I know what his emergence means with regard to Christ’s return, but I also know that “TIME” is so short to pull people back from the edge of the abyss before judgment.

Not only am I capable of doing all things through Christ who strengthens me I am incapable of doing anything without him.  Doesn’t that provide wonderful clarity that Christ is “everything” in my victory.  He is that weepy day where I screamed and cried uncontrollably understanding my sin-filled, dilemma.  He is that grand day, after reading the Bible for some time that I realized it was a guide book for this life and provided insight beyond the timeline.  He is that blessed day when I realized He had made me into a new creature and that all my past had somehow been washed away.  He is that glorious moment when I truly knew Him so well that it was His voice alone I would follow, discerning between fleshly and enemy attempts to lead me astray of God.  He was that overwhelming instant when I used His power for the purpose of testimony and truth in leading others to the Cross.  He provides an indwelling Spirit that allows me to be righteous even though I never was, leads me to Holiness, though I never have had it and sanctification before God though I was never any better than a wretched mess.  He is my seal, my Saviour, my Father, my friend and my God.  In Him I do miracles to the glory of His name.

None of it, politics, relationships, wealth, health, stone, wood, rocks or trees matter one lick when compared to our intimacy with the Lord.  I can walk this world renowned, having the respect, admiration and honor of all mankind and still not be known by God.  I can have everything that my flesh or personality ever wanted, including the gold, sexual intimacy, job power, influence, ownership and attention, covering every facet of what defines a worldly man as success and still be bereft of salvation.  I want no control, except that which God gives me back when I have relinquished all expectation to Him.  I want no reward, except that which He will bestow upon me as blessing or for work properly attended.  I want no relationship except those that honor His Name and display my respect for His Glory.  I am powerless without Him and indefatigable within Him.  This is His life that I have the joy of experiencing.  May all that you are defend all that He is.  In Jesus’ Holy Name.