Toughened for Terrible Times By Major Frank Materu
Key Bible Scripture
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
---Introduction
In these days of uncertainty, when darkness seems to be advancing over the earth, believers are called to stand strong. The trials that come upon the world, marked by rising violence, corruption, and madness, are not meant to defeat us but to toughen us for God's purposes. In a time when many are led astray by pride and demonic forces, God is preparing His people to be vessels of light and truth in a dark world.
---God’s Preparation for Tough Times
God, in His wisdom, does not call His people to weakness but to strength. As believers walk through trials and tribulations, God uses these experiences to build resilience and unwavering faith. He trains His people to stand firm against the forces of evil and to remain faithful even in the most difficult times. It is not in weakness that we find victory, but in His strength, as He equips us for the challenges ahead.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13
---The Rise of Wickedness
Across the world, leaders drunk with pride and power are wreaking havoc. Dictators, emboldened by demonic influence, impose tyranny and violence, showing no mercy to those who oppose them. The wickedness of such rulers is evident in the suffering they cause, and their pursuit of control and domination leaves destruction in their wake. Yet, God is aware of these forces and will not let His people fall to them. He has called them to be strong and resilient in the face of such evil.
“The heart of the king is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.” – Proverbs 21:1
---The “New Normal”
In these terrible times, many people will grow accustomed to violence, suffering, and fear. Propaganda and the constant bombardment of terror will lead many to surrender, accepting misery as their new reality. Yet, God does not call His people to such surrender. Believers are called to resist the spirit of fear and not be swayed by the insanity around them. Rather, they are to stand firm and declare the truth, showing the world the way to peace and salvation.
“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
---The Epidemic of Sin and Despair
As the world plunges deeper into sin, addiction, and despair, many will fall into hopelessness, unable to cope with the overwhelming pressures of life. The epidemic of mental breakdowns, violence, and aimlessness will increase, but those who are toughened for these times will have the strength to endure. They will not be swept away by the flood of destruction but will stand as witnesses of God’s grace, drawing others into His kingdom.
“But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” – Matthew 24:13
---Equipped for God’s Purpose
For those who have been toughened by God’s training, these are not times of defeat but of opportunity. The world is in desperate need of true messengers who can withstand the storms and declare the light of Christ. God has equipped His people to be agents of change, to stand firm in the face of adversity and to bring peace to the broken and lost.
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.” – Psalm 18:2
---The Power of God’s Spirit
Believers must rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance, strength, and direction. It is through the Spirit that they are able to navigate the challenges of these times, staying true to God’s path. As long as they remain obedient to His voice, they will not be swayed by the forces of darkness. They will be able to stand in the power of His might, knowing that God is more powerful than any tyrant or demon.
“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” – John 14:18
---Summary
The times ahead may be filled with darkness, destruction, and suffering, but for those who have been toughened by God’s Spirit, these are times to shine. God’s people are not meant to be overwhelmed by fear or despair but to stand firm in His strength, declaring His truth to a lost world. God is with His people, empowering them to endure and bring others to salvation.
---Call to Action
As believers, let us embrace the toughening process God has for us. Let us stand firm in the faith, knowing that God has equipped us to face the challenges of these terrible times. We are called to be lights in the darkness, drawing others to the peace and hope found only in Christ.
---Conclusion
While the world faces increasing turmoil, God’s people are called to remain strong, rooted in faith, and led by His Spirit. In the midst of the storm, we can have peace, knowing that God is with us, and we are being prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Let us walk in the strength and power of the Holy Spirit, ready to fulfill God’s purpose for our lives and to stand firm in these times of trouble.
