MORNING MANNA           2/15/20

Some people spend the bulk of their lives up-set, angry, and depressed due to their disappointment with the world. It appears that all they can think about is how bad, awful, and rotten the world is, and it colors their thoughts about everything else in life. You could describe their life as one long, non-stop rant. They are miserable and they spread it to others. And the fact that they are correct in their beliefs about the world’s condition leaves them feeling justified in what they do. It’s true that the world is in a terrible mess, but merely moaning about the mess doesn’t make it any better. Complaining can’t create change.

All of this is the result of unrealistic expectations. If we truly understood the nature of the world we wouldn’t be surprised by it. What do you expect from unsaved people? The world is like it is because it is what it is. And it’s not a pretty picture. It is a sinful system under the sway of Satan, it’s god. It is indeed awful, just like they say, and it’s going to get worse. The question is “What are we to do?” How should we respond? Considering what the world is and what is to come we need to consider Peter’s question, “what manner of persons ought ye to be?” ( 2 Pet. 3:11) That’s the question.

For some of us the great temptation is to crusade against the evil and try to change the world back to the good old days that we dream about. To resist that urge we must understand what we’re dealing with. We need to understand the nature of the world. We need to remember that it is cursed, corrupt, controlled, confused, and condemned. In other words it’s not something we can control or change. That’s not only beyond our ability it isn’t our assignment. Our God given mission is clear ( Matt. 28:19-20) and it has nothing to do with changing the world. The only changes that we can make are made one person at a time as people come to know Christ.

The thing that makes this so difficult is our desire for things to be better – a legitimate desire for sure. If I could have my way “____ “.  I’ll spare you the details, and some would be glad I did if they knew what I would say. I’ll just say, the world would be different. But I know the effort would be a waste. It’s not that I would mind putting forth the effort and making the sacrifices. I would gladly do that if it would help, but it wouldn’t. I say that because that’s what the Bible tells me. The world is going to get worse and worse until Jesus comes. Naturally I can and should pray, vote, and speak out but I must not allow my effort to change the world distract me from the great commission. That should always be my first order of business. Yours also.  – HDS

David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346