The Perfect Plot

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Observing the world around us today, I would say we are living in what's known as "the last days." I won't try to put any type of timetable on it, but it seems like we are on the precipice of those turbulent times. Reading the news or watching TV, there are "wars and rumors of wars." Our weather systems are in flux and we can't go too long without seeing some kind of storm that wreaks havoc. Lawlessness is most certainly the rule of the day. It appears many items on the "Book of Revelation checklist" will be checked, if they haven't already.

In church today, our pastor was talking about healing and how Jesus responds to faith. When someone is at the end of their rope and they are desperate for healing, they long for the release of healing. When that person puts full faith in Jesus, He responds with healing power. Today, so many are dealing with countless sicknesses, hurts, and diseases. Our world is ripe for healing. We are so close to being at the end of our collective rope.

Satan only wants to "kill, steal, and destroy." He is unleashing his greatest assault on the human race at this time. This is where we can go two different ways in how we respond. One path to take is the one of intimidation, fear, and hopelessness. This is the ultimate path that Satan wants us to go. At the end of this road is a lack of faith. We are left with frustration, anger, and emptiness. The other path is one of hope and faith. It's where we place our full faith in Jesus and we see the release of heaven on earth.

C.S. Lewis has said that because we can fathom the idea of heaven, this proves the existence of such a place. We can imagine many things in our minds and hearts. We can visualize a world where disease no longer takes a toll on the lives of those around us. We can imagine how wonderful that can be. However, in the day-to-day battle of reality, these dreams of perfection can fade. We can become saddled down with the slow drain of doubt and depression. This is our fight.

This is also where the beauty of God's perfect plot comes shining through. If Satan is intent on beating us up and destroying us, there will be no end to his pursuit. He will keep pushing it. Indeed, he will raise up an "antichrist," one who will appear to make everything well and good, one who will create a peaceful planet and the appearance of heaven. This antichrist will draw many away from their faith in Christ. However, many more will be drawn to the true power of Jesus as they see the facade of Satan's plan. As things continue to worsen, people will be drawn to the light of Jesus and his healing, where they will find rest and renewal.

Satan ultimately plays into God's hands with each turn. He keeps pushing people into hopeless corners, only for God to be waiting there for the weary soul with compassion and restoration. God cannot lose. Although we are living in intense times, we can believe that God has everything under control and that He is always working things out for good. We close our eyes and look into the future, imagining the day when the reality of heaven can be grasped.