You know it is not hard to say that there is a lot going on for any of us. We all have things going on in our lives. It can be everything from planning a vacation to losing a loved one. There is also everything in between.
It is difficult to see what is happening and not be overwhelmed. What I see as harder is to find a place in the situation to find solace. That is why for you and I as believers, God's Word is so important. The Word is a picture from another time yet with all of the intricacies of today. It is not lost in time but rather finds its significance in time even in this very moment.
There is an account in 2 Kings 22-23 and also accounted for in 2 Chronicles 33-34 regarding Josiah. In the account, Josiah hears from the law in Moses writings from a scroll found when Josiah is having workers begin to repair the temple. It had been left in need of repair and been used to worship of other gods.
As you read, you find that Josiah is so moved and under conviction as to their sins as a people. He recognizes that the judgement of God is coming against the people. He was in despair and has them seek the counsel of the prophet Huldah. Confirming and giving direction for God she says in 2 Chronicles 34:23-25
“She said to them, “The Lord, the God of Israel, has spoken! Go back and tell the man who sent you, ‘This is what the Lord says: I am going to bring disaster on this city and its people. All the curses written in the scroll that was read to the king of Judah will come true. For my people have abandoned me and offered sacrifices to pagan gods, and I am very angry with them for everything they have done. My anger will be poured out on this place, and it will not be quenched.’”
Then in verses 26-28 we read-
““But go to the king of Judah who sent you to seek the Lord and tell him: ‘This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says concerning the message you have just heard: You were sorry and humbled yourself before God when you heard his words against this city and its people. You humbled yourself and tore your clothing in despair and wept before me in repentance. And I have indeed heard you, says the Lord. So I will not send the promised disaster until after you have died and been buried in peace. You yourself will not see the disaster I am going to bring on this city and its people.’” So they took her message back to the king.”
I think that what surprises me the most is that for any and every situation in life there are answers, encouragements and acknowledgments to whatever we might face. There were for Josiah and the people but there would eventually be God's judgement.
God does judge and will God judge this world? The answer is yes, this world of sin and corruption cannot and will not be allowed to continue unjudged. The judgement of mankind's sins were placed on Jesus Christ. God has made it perfectly clear that the only way to escape judgment is to accept Jesus Christ.
Does that mean that things will be perfect while we are here on earth? No, but it does mean that we will not be judged for eternity in hell. There is a lot going on and it can be overwhelming at times.
How did Jesus explain it His disciples in John 14:1-4?
““Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.””
Now they didn't think they knew the way to where He was going, but He reminded them in verses 6-7
“Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. If you had really known me, you would know who my Father is. From now on, you do know him and have seen him!””
You're right, there is a lot going on and the good thing is Jesus already took care of the hard part for us all.
In God's Grace,
Elbert Nasworthy
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