"It's not like the old days..."

Years ago there used to be this fun kids programme on the telly called 'Live and Kicking'. It was the one thing that used to get us out of bed early every Saturday morning, because being 'really live', there was always this sense of anticipation about what may, or may not happen, or which famous guest might suddenly appear during those 3 hours on the air...

Amongst the fun and frivolities, there was always this same comedy sketch in a school staff room where there were these disgruntled teachers all lounging around, grumbling and complaining, about this that and the other. Every week we'd be waiting for that same 'punch line' when one of them would finally blurt out those famous words; 'It's not like the old days.....' to which another would wearily agree; 'You're so right...'  Then we'd all fall about laughing...

Well, I'm sure you'll agree, - it really is not like the old days now! Life is now so complicated. Just technology alone can sometimes have you almost climbing the walls in frustration...not to mention all the troubles in the world....wars...and rumours of wars just as Jesus warned us about in Matthew 24.

I'm currently half way through Wendy Alec's gripping novel 'A Pale Horse'. Anyone who is maybe thinking it's all just pure fantasy, think again. The content will have been prayerfully and carefully researched, including the gleaning of certain information from those 'in the know'.

Jesus knew all of what would happen in the future and was not phased, but instead, instructed us what we must do. Thirteen times during the gospels, He exhorted us to 'Watch and pray'. So it must be something important, eh? Years ago not long after my salvation, I saw on the church notices sheet  'New Years Eve Watchnight' and remember being filled with wonder about what 'mysterious and mystical' thing might possibly be about to happen....

However Jesus, being always most practical, meant nothing more than doing certain things that would keep us close to Him, and therefore, under His constant protection. For example, living a surrendered lifestyle, staying in the Word, and consistent prayer is 'watching'. Another form of 'the watch' is praying protection over ourselves and our loved ones every day. That way we will not be taken unawares, but instead be prepared and ready, whenever trouble shows up.

Also, spending sometime during our day praying fervently in tongues is a great way to remain 'bulldog strong' - ready to face anything! All of this requires commitment, effort and self control, which our flesh really does not like! - Nevertheless, - we can do it!

In the area I live, the TV signal is not very good, and last year I lost my connection completely. After endeavouring to fix it for a while, I eventually left off trying, and have since not really missed it at all. I now stick to Christian teaching and worship DVD's.

Some folks think that we need to keep up to date with all the worldly news in order to 'stay in the know' and be prepared for whatever. The truth is, the more we fill our minds with all that negativity and fear, the more our faith will begin diminish. Meditating in the Word however, will keep us above every negative circumstance, and walking in wisdom. Make no mistake, having a strong spirit is the ONLY thing that will take us through the many challenges that will come against us in these last days.

It's time to start really 'backing away' from the things of the world  and all that will distract us from hearing that 'still small voice' which is the earnest, heartfelt cry of the Bridegroom for His Bride...