Trust in God – first and foremost can save lives. In these troubled times the world is offering many sources of protection and comfort: money, guns, food supplies, bunkers, other hiding places and even survival strategies. But according to the Bible there is one thing that can save you in the troubled days ahead: Trust in God. It may sound over-simplistic but read on because it IS the best survival strategy.

In Jeremiah’s day judgement fell on Israel due to their disobedience. Many Jews were killed and many were taken captive. Their walled city could not save them. Their king could not save them. Their riches and preparation for the attack did not prevent judgement from coming.

Babylon was used by God to bring His judgement to Israel because they had quit trusting in God. They had started serving other gods and allowed things like wealth and power and control to become more important than Jehovah God in their lives. Does this sound familiar? A lot like society today, would you agree?

An example of God’s deliverance during this time is reflected in verses 17-18 of Jeremiah 39 when the prophet Jeremiah was told to give a message to an Ethiopian man—a gentile. The message said, “But I will deliver you in that day,” says the Lord, “and you shall not be given into the hand of the men of whom you are afraid. For I will surely deliver you, and you shall not fall by the sword; but your life shall be as a prize to you, because you have put your trust in Me,” says the Lord.’”

If you read the entire chapter of Jeremiah, you will see that God brought judgment by using ungodly people. He didn’t rescue His people out of the persecution that came, but protected the righteous through the persecution. This Ethiopian man, although he lost all his possessions and home, he escaped with his life.

The first and last thing we MUST do as we face uncertain days is “trust in the Lord!” Why? Because judgement is coming! Let me provide three primary keys that will guide you into a safe place of “trusting in God.”

• Make certain that your relationship with God is first place in your life. Place Him truly on the throne. If it came down to choosing between your home, money, your possessions, your family, your business, food, or God—what or who would you choose? Spend some time to consider your current priorities and make any necessary adjustments. Be certain in your heart and mind that God is truly first. If that is the case, tell Him that He is first–out loud. Matthew 22:37-38 “Jesus said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment.” There is another thing that demonstrates that you honor God. When writing … always capitalize pronouns referring to God…such as Him, His, Your, He, etc. This may seem trivial to others…but trust me, this is not trivial to the Father. Spread the word too. Tell others about this infraction as you are able.
• Spend time with God. If you trust in Him, you will nurture that relationship. Spend enough time talking and listening with God to hear His voice in your heart. This is how you will sense His leading in your life. Most of us spend time on our homes, cars, phones, computers, TV, personal grooming, entertainment, working, enjoying activities and so much more. But do we give priority to the Lord where it is truly due? Nurture a personal relationship with Him… with His Holy Spirit. Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.”
• Double up on reading your Bible. Spend increased time in God’s Word. He will provide more insight, direction and understanding through His Word. Psalms 119:11 “Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.” And Proverbs 30:5, “Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.”

Deception is coming to the world and will be increasing. In the near future will be the most powerful deceptions in history. By reading more of God’s word for yourself, He will unveil the subtle compromises around you and will lead you into all truth.You and I are not naturally able to discern truth without the personal assistance of the Holy Spirit. Remember, the Bible says this deception will be so strong that even the elect will be deceived by it. The consequences are eternal. Only the Holy Spirit can quicken our hearts to understand and recognize the truth. So let us all draw in close to the Lord and continue there.

It is time to stop our dependence on the pastor or your Bible Study leader or your priest or doctor or family and friends to guide and prepare you. We each will be accountable for our own choices, and the only way to have confidence in what we choose is to know God personally, intimately, and to do what He says and go where He leads when He says to do it.

God loves you. But have each been given the gift of free-will which God will not usurp. He wants us to choose Him—love Him. It’s time to get serious friend. This world is headed for judgement and the Church is headed toward persecution. Make certain you are prepared to face it with a solid “trust in God!”

Unite brothers and sister of Jesus. Draw near to God and come into unity one with another! You can do it. Remember, with God nothing is impossible!

• Watch Paula’s NEW Video: “CANCER: FIRST STEP” – click on image…

We’re praying for you, our partners.