Luke 12

In Luke 12 Jesus warns the disciples not to follow the teaching of the Pharisees. He tells them that nothing will be kept secret. Eventually everything comes to light. Think of how many religious leaders throughout the past thought they were getting away with things in secret, only to have those things come back to haunt them later in their life. We must act with integrity - in puritiy and righteousness - at all times if we are to have a good name, and - more importantly - not spoil our testimony about Jesus.

If there's one things the news and social media are good at it's spreading fear. This is not unique to our generation though, in one way or another people have always been worried about the abuse and mismanagement of power. We need not fear the things of this world because their threat is only temporary at best. What we need to do is fear God so that we do not end up in eternal dispair.

We are to confess Christ in all circumstances - even if it means we will suffer or die for it. He suffered and died for us, so He is not asking us to do anything that He has not already done Himself. If we are going to follow Him, we must be willing to follow Him everywhere He Himself goes - or has gone.

Jesus tells us not to put our trust in earthly wealth because our possession of it is only for a limited time, whether the wealth leaves us or we leave the wealth. With the recent announcements to stock up on 3-90 days of supplies this particular lesson stands out to me. Let's say you stock up on 90 days of supplies, but 30 days in someone comes and kills you and takes all your stuff - were you trusting in God, or were you trusting in your stuff? Not saying it's wrong to be prepared - but what are you ultimately trusting in, and who is going to really benefit from your preparation?

Worry is the opposite of hope. When we worry about things we lose hope. Faith is the evidence of things not seen, the assurance of things hoped for. When we lose hope we lose faith. To have faith in God is to trust God, so when you start to feel worried about anything give it to God and trust Him to work it out.

What is your treasure in heaven? Is it material possessions? No. Those are earthly treasures. In heaven we will get to reunite with our loved ones and meet all our brothers and sisters in Christ who have ever lived. Our treasures in heaven are our relationships, so invest in those now while you can, so you will have an abundance of them in heaven.

Be ready at all times - not for chaos to break out in the streets - but for the return of Christ. Are you staying in the word? Are you praying? Are you worshipping? Are you spreading the Gospel and loving your neighbor? These are the preparations that should have the highest priority in your life. Are you concerned about your family's safety - how about their salvation? Have your priorities in order and be watchful for the things that truly matter.

Jesus did not promise to build a utopia for us in this life. There will be strife, but we must not give up. Keep Him first no matter who opposes you. And when the time comes to reconcile with those who opposed you have a heart full of love and forgiveness rather than a spirit of offense.