Recognizing the Signs 2

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: March 5, 2025

Scripture:"As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. ‘Tell us,’ they said, ‘when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?’ Jesus answered: ‘Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, "I am the Messiah," and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.’” - Matthew 24:3-6 (NIV)

Devotional houghts

Jesus, in His infinite wisdom, did not leave us clueless about the signs of the end times. He gave clear indications to help us recognize when the time is near. Yesterday, we began looking at these signs, and today, we continue to explore them.

When we look at the world around us, do we see deception, conflicts, natural disasters, and societal unrest? Are the moral values of the world eroding? Jesus referred to these events as "the beginning of birth pains." Birth pains start gradually but increase in intensity. Likewise, the signs of the end times are becoming more frequent and more intense.

Consider the state of our world today: False teachings and deception are rampant. Many people are being led astray by doctrines that contradict biblical truth. Wars, political instability, and violent conflicts continue to escalate globally. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and famines are occurring with increasing frequency. These are not mere coincidences; they are the fulfillment of Jesus' words.

In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Paul describes the last days as perilous times when people will be "lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love..." This perfectly describes the moral decay we see today. But as believers, we must not be fearful; rather, we should be prepared.

Practical Reflection

Have you noticed how deception is increasing in the world? Are you staying rooted in God's Word to avoid being misled?
When you hear of wars and disasters, do you panic, or do you remember that Jesus told us these things must happen?
How can you prepare yourself spiritually to stand firm in these times?

Closing Thoughts

Jesus did not give these warnings to make us fearful but to prepare us. Just as a storm warning helps people take shelter and prepare, these signs should urge us to strengthen our faith and share the gospel. The most important response to these signs is to ensure we are spiritually ready. Are you watching and praying? Are you drawing closer to God daily? Now is the time to be vigilant, stand firm in the faith, and live righteously as we anticipate Christ’s return.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the wisdom and guidance in Your Word. Help me to be discerning in these times and not be deceived by the enemy. Strengthen my faith so that I may stand firm in Your truth. Let me not be anxious but trust in Your perfect plan. Use me as a light in this dark world so that I may lead others to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.