I have been studying the book of Daniel in the bible. It is just one of Dr. Chuck Missler’s many bible studies on Audible. His ability to bring the books to life by providing historical background and future foreground keeps me engaged. And he even points out the present relevance of what was said thousands of years ago. If you want to learn and understand the Bible’s books, I highly recommend Dr. Missler’s studies.
While listening to Daniel, Dr. Missler lightly touched on a future subject during my study today, and it perked my ears. He reminded us that times are coming when our freedom of religion and speech will be diminished at first and then eliminated. It is happening now.
So, I want to ask you some questions which I have asked myself many times. First, will the coming events, led by our own leaders, wash over and carefully conform you to their ways? Or will your faith and reliance on God be so great that you will stand for truth and righteousness? Even if it means your persecution or even death? I have prayed before that I will stand knowing that even in death, I have victory!
What do you think or are you rolling your eyes at me and saying, “Really, Joni, when we are going through these hard times of the pandemic, you want us to focus on our freedoms? Please let us survive this first!” And I hear you. But it is during these times when we can focus on strengthening our faith. And, it is during these times, the powers that be will sneaky snake your liberties away from you. So, what can we do? Strengthen your faith by reading your bible and pray every day. Then be diligent about observing your online activity and the activity of “Big Tech,” your leadership’s actions, and bring to light any wrongdoing.
When I say pray, I mean pray during the day at least three times. Did you know Daniel prayed three times a day? You are probably questioning me with statements about Daniel having the time. Daniel wasn’t some prophet nomad wandering around like our televangelist, preaching God’s words. He had a job and a very important one too. He was President over the region, first for King Nebuchadnezzar and then at 83 years of age for King Darius. All the while doing God’s work to set the stage for Jesus’ birth and the gentile’s conversions. Something to occur in hundreds of years, even thousands. And he stopped every day, went to his upstairs room window, facing Jerusalem, and prayed three times a day!
Don’t allow this pandemic to fatigue you into believing you do not have time! Now can you find the time to pray? I know I can do better with my praying and immersing myself in God’s word. In the morning, after I do all of my medications and shots, I lie back down to rest away the fatigue I endure from the disease. Prayer time number one. Once I am up, I do my bible study and prayers. That is twice. And at bedtime, I can add one more prayer moment. Three times! These will be the stopping my forward motion, earnest prayers, not the short little ones I pray during my daytime activities. All I have to do is to continue until it becomes a habit.
What about you? Can you find extra minutes to stop and kneel down and pray to God? Prayer and relationship with God are how we strengthen our faith and rely upon God. We must prepare now by laying the foundation just like Daniel did, to stand firm in the future. For the time is coming.
This bible verse is for you!
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”
God Bless You.
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