As believers in Jesus, and watchers for His soon return, we can utterly sense the shadow of the coming tribulation to this earth. We can see the signs around us and can know that something horribly ominous is approaching; however, we do not fear, because we know what it is, why it is, who it’s for, and not for. While we are concerned for those who resist the prompting of the Lord to come to Him by faith, we also do our best to be a good witness for the Lord to them. I must admit, some days are better than others, but my witness for the Lord is consistently on. I make many a prayer for those in my path, both known and unknown; you can too.
The dilemma that many watchers have right now is how are they to maintain this good witness and positive attitude knowing that this period of history known as the tribulation is quickly approaching. It can be difficult to project a positive attitude for a future in a world that is clearly being aligned for God’s judgment, and His redemption. However, in all of this, we are called to be light and salt to a dark and tasteless world. Our goal is to be a resource of the Lord and a steward of His to reach others who would also know and be saved. This is our last days mandate. We must occupy until He returns. We must do business with others and do our jobs well for others. We must be Jesus extended to those who are also living in the shadow of the tribulation so that they may be saved from what is to come. While know what is approaching this world can be disheartening, we must choose the right attitude for our faith as we press on. I should like to share with you, from my own experience, how this can be accomplished.
I have the responsibility of maintaining our rental properties. It’s a lot of work without a lot of money. This is the lot for a landlord who understands that keeping properties up takes a lot of work and money. God is good and always provides the way so our tenants are content and comfortable. While I don’t mind the work associated with this endeavor, I do look forward to going home. The old saying, ‘all work and no play makes Johnny a dull boy’ would apply here. I am not saying that I am dull, just a bit fatigued. However, I choose to enjoy the work and see the satisfaction that comes from a job well done. Since we represent the Lord to others, we need to choose the right faith attitude in all that we do, from pulling weeds, to fixing that which is broken, to doing whatever it is that God has ordained for us to do; and we must do it all for His glory.
Paul reminds us all that…”whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” – Colossians 3:17
Some would use their fatigue to not do their work as unto the Lord; however, my response would be to get more rest, eat better, exercise, and choose a right faith attitude. That time that you spend with the Lord in the early mornings is not for His benefit; it’s for yours. The strength you will gain in your mental and spiritual health will dwarf what others will never receive from a good gym regiment. I like to say it this way, ‘It’s not what you do, but what you look like doing what you do.’ If you look like you have a right attitude in doing what you do, than you probably do. If we do our tasks as unto the Lord, then our faith attitude will be properly aligned with His will and mandate for our lives. If we do it as unto Christ, the Lord will be honored in our effort and attitude.
This is never easy, but it’s right. We must all choose well, each day, the right faith attitude as we endure through these last of the last moments of the Church age. We’re almost home, and when we do finally cross over into our eternal reward, this will all be in our rear view mirror. Until then, it’s still in our windshield and we must drive carefully in this last lap of our race, planning long, but looking short, every step of the way.
As I look into the faces of those many people who are as lost as they are unwilling to receive the Christ,I pray for them, but I am also saddened for their plight. I have dedicated my life to be a good witness to any and all who would desire the Christ. I have found that as I witness, many can tell there’s something different about me, but they are not willing to join in the journey. It’s takes a special reception on the part of an individual who accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior. I want it for everyone just as much as the Lord does; (2 Peter 3:9) but alas, we all must choose for ourselves Whom we will serve.
I have made a clear choice and I will be faithful to the Lord in it. My faith attitude, although challenged at times, will be in alignment with God’s will and plan for my life, no matter how few days we have left on this rock. Don’t let the enemy soil your attitude as you work, watch, wait, and witness for the Lord. God will always provide, we need to trust in Him. He will always provide a way and a plan; but we have to wait on Him for the increase. I want to challenge you to do your best man of God (and lady), the Lord is near and we need to be aware of this as we plan out and live out our faith each day for His glory. Eat the meat, drink the sweet, and do your best to have the right faith attitude as you honor the Lord in your service of Him in these last days.
Maranatha!
Encourage Men 