UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES

In Matthew 24 Jesus told His disciples about events that would take place before the rapture and before His return to the earth, and if you are listening to the news or reading news articles, you can attest to the fact that those events are presently being unfolded. I believe that the stage is set for the next big event in history, and that is the return of Jesus to catch away (rapture) His bride. According to the book of Revelation, the bride or body of believers will be with Jesus in heaven during the tribulation period, and then they will return to earth to reign with Jesus during His millennium reign.

Paul cautioned believers not to be deceived, and he informed us that believers would fall from the faith in the last days (2 Thessalonians 2:3). Thus, it is imperative that we also remember the words of Paul that we are children of light, and we are to watch and be sober. This is necessary lest we take life lightly and reject the truth that is in the Word. Therefore, all of us needs to pray and ask God to help us discern the times like the children of Issachar.

Issachar was the ninth son of Jacob and the fifth child born to his mother, Leah. The bible states this fact concerning his lineage, “And the children of Issachar which were men that had an understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do” (1 Chronicles 12:33) and according to the Targum the children of Issachar were astrologers and astronomers, that studied the heavenlies.

In the camp in the wilderness, the tribe of Issachar pitched their tents on the east side of the tabernacle next to the tribe of Judah and when the Israelis journeyed the tribe of Issachar was the second leading tribe for they followed the first tribe which was Judah. It is interesting to note that “Praise” went first followed by “Understanding and Insight.” Could this possibly be a key to a believer’s spiritual success? Praising God first and then receiving and doing what is instructed.

As I previously stated, I am expecting the rapture to happen soon. This present world is so tumultuous; I cannot imagine what this world will be like if Jesus should tarry another ten or twenty years. However, while I am living, I do have a responsibility to occupy this world and evangelize the lost for I understand the times.

Finally, I pray for those of you that are reading this blog that you also will seek to understand the times, that you will speak to the God of the heavenlies and that He will direct your path.