Finding Hope in Uncertain TimesSample

What You Can Count On in Uncertain Times

“You, too, must be patient. Don’t give up hope. The Lord will soon be here.” James 5:8 (GW)

We’re living in strange and uncertain times. But no matter what’s going on in our communities and around the world, we can remain certain of this truth: God is in control.

The Bible gives this encouragement: “Brothers and sisters, be patient until the Lord comes again. See how farmers wait for their precious crops to grow. They wait patiently for fall and spring rains. You, too, must be patient. Don’t give up hope. The Lord will soon be here. Brothers and sisters, stop complaining about each other, or you will be condemned. Realize that the judge is standing at the door” (James 5:7-9 GW).

Why does James remind us several times in this passage that the Lord is coming back? Because it’s the ultimate proof that God is in control.

History is God’s story. It’s not circular; there is no circle of life. History is linear, and it’s moving to a climax. God has a plan and a purpose. And one day Jesus is going to return.

Everything is on schedule. We don’t know when he’s coming back, but the Bible talks more about Jesus’ second coming than about his first coming. Because of that, anticipation of the Second Coming should change our everyday lives. We should be living with great expectation!

Be patient. God’s timing is perfect. He’s never late, and he’s always in control—even when your circumstances may seem out of control and what you’re going through may be painful.

Jesus’ promise is for you today: “When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am” (John 14:3 NLT).

There are few things that are certain in life. But you can say with absolute assurance that Jesus will come back one day. You can build your hope on this certainty. You will not be disappointed!

When you feel like you can’t count on anything else, count on this: God’s got this. And Jesus will come back one day soon to make all things right and new.

This devotional © 2024 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.