Episode 79: Understanding the Times
If you ask people what they think of the times we’re living in, you’ll probably get varied responses. Some are clueless, only concerned with their own lives and desires. Others are hyper-concerned, seeing doom everywhere they look. What’s the right stand to take in our post-Judeo-Christian society?
How can we make an impact for the Gospel, without sounding judgmental and cold?
Today, like all times in history, we must be empowered by God if we’re to influence those around us with Godly teaching and the knowledge of Godly ways. There’s a scriptural reference to a special kind of anointing we can ask for. It’s an anointing that makes us relevant and powerful in our day, just like it did in the time it was written.
1 Chronicles: 12:32 describes the sons of Issachar as men who understood the times they lived in and knew what to do! One author describes understanding the times as being able to move boldly towards opportunity. As we take a look at a woman who knew her times… it’s important to realize this anointing is as relevant for us today, as it was for her thousands of years ago.
In 2 Kings 22 we see a King named Josiah that’s come from a hard lineage. His evil father was murdered in the palace, and Josiah became King at the age of eight! When he was a young man, the words of the Law (referred to as “The Lost Book”) were read aloud to him. He had never heard the word of God. He instantly fell to his face and tore his clothes.
In response to hearing God’s word, he wanted to hear what the prophetess Huldah thought of the words he’d heard read aloud. She offered him wisdom in a way that showed she was aware of the times. In delivering him a timely message about the people of Israel, she showed these three traits:
1. Huldah was bold, bordering on fearless. When God gives us truth, it will eventually demand an action. She may have been waiting, preparing, and praying so when God brought her truth—she was ready to respond.
2. She didn’t sugarcoat God’s word. There’s a time for silence and a time for truth. Sugarcoating God’s word can rob someone of true change or blessing.
3. She offered hope and renewal. God is a God of HOPE. He never speaks truth and leaves us to deal with it in shambles. He lifts us and empowers us to change and move forward.
Gutsy Faith Challenge: Let’s pray for the Issachar anointing - to be fresh tellers of truth, anointed to understand our times.
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