Religion column

In Matthew 24:37-39, Jesus said, "For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. For as in those days which were before the flood they were eating and drinking, they were marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so shall the coming of the Son of Man be."

A new year always brings with it fresh opportunities, but this time also a sense of concern over what will actually happen during Y2K. As we face the year 1999, there seems to be a greater sense of uncertainty in the hearts of many people. We are fast approaching a new millennium, and many believers, as well as unbelievers, are aware of great changes in the world in which we live. There is proven increase in the number of natural disasters. There is economic uncertainty in many parts of the world, including ours. How should we as believers face the year 1999 and the possible challenges it will bring?

First, the enemy of our soul would like to plant fear and worry in our hearts and minds, but these are never the heart of our Heavenly Father. I believe the Word of God gives us clear instructions on how to face and overcome uncertainty.

Second, I believe where God leads us to do practical things, we should. This is proven in the days of Joseph (in the Book of Genesis) and in other occasions in the Word of God. To panic is not God, but to plan is wise!

Thirdly, we should always face our future with faith in God. Faith believes in God and in His Word in spite of what our outward circumstances may look like. In uncertain times, as believers we can stand firm on the certainty of God's word (Heb. 11:1, Hosea 4:6). We can't live without His daily bread!

Fourthly, we face an uncertain future with prayer. It amazes me how believers don't pray. In fact, we are overwhelmed by our problems and our lives are filled with anxiety, because we don't pray. A believer who doesn't pray is an oxymoron! As we humble ourselves before the Lord, we will see His glory, provision and power (2 Chronicles 7:14, Phil. 4:5-8, etc).

Lastly, we can face an uncertain future better if we're plugged into a local church. Do not wait until all hell breaks loose before you become a part of a local fellowship. It amazes me how we don't change when we see the light; we have to wait until we feel the heat! The writer of the book of Hebrews said, "Do not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." The Day referred to in this verse is the day of Christ's return. We do not know when that day will be, but we know that day is fast approaching. The truth is we all need Jesus and we need each other. So don't wait. Also, if you've pressed out for whatever the reason, press back in. Be moved by faith and not by fear!

These are uncertain times in which we live, but our trust is in the sure foundation of our forefathers In God We Trust. Remember this song: Because He lives, I can face tomorrow Because He lives, all fear is gone Because I know, He holds the future And life is worth the living just because He lives.

Be practical, be prayerful, be praising. Proverbs 3:5-6.

Pastor Sam Calleiro is senior associate pastor of River's Edge Community Church, 1091 South Jeff Davis Dr., Fayetteville. He is covering a Wednesday night study with the theme, "Developing a Faith that Works for Y2K," based on the book of James. The study begins at 6:30 p.m. A youth and children's ministry are available.

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