They will look up to heaven and down at the earth, but wherever they look, there will be trouble and anguish and dark despair. They will be thrown out into the darkness. Nevertheless, that time of darkness and despair will not go on forever. Isaiah 8:21–9:1 (NLT)

Words are fascinating—all words, really, but especially words that indicate a change of direction or purpose. When times are difficult, there is a tendency toward despair. Whether we are speaking of illness, war, economic depression, or even a nation’s moral and spiritual decline, people lose hope. They wonder if things will ever change or get better. People who think this way are looking for an escape.

The word “nevertheless” is a word that signals that something has changed or will change. Words and phrases related to “nevertheless” include “still,” “though,” “yet,” “but,” “even though,” and “in spite of,” to mention a few.

These words insert a contradiction into the flow of events. Things may be going poorly, or they may be going great when an interruption comes. It is almost inevitable. Throughout history, the status quo does not stay the status quo forever. When things are good, we don’t want them to change; nevertheless, something will arise, and the flow of life will be altered.

The Coming of the Lord

Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly wait for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20 (CSB)

Scripture teaches us that we are to await the return of Jesus Christ eagerly, but if we are honest with ourselves, our eagerness varies with the situation. This week Denise and I celebrated our 38^th anniversary. I’m pretty confident that on our wedding day, I never said, “I sure hope the Lord returns today!” It did not mean I did not love Jesus, but life was good.

We are more likely to long for the Lord’s return when conditions are like they were in Isaiah’s day: “wherever they look, there will be trouble and anguish and dark despair.” It is only natural that we are more inclined to look for release and relief when things are difficult. In the last 2000 years, there have been many times of desperation. There have been countless wars and plagues. Additionally, the hearts of God’s people have grown cold, and there has been compromise, morally and spiritually.

Whether things are good or bad, history shows us that sooner or later, things will change. Times of prosperity and abundance seemed to lead to spiritual complacency. At the same time, trouble and anguish draw us back to God. Likewise, the eagerness for his return intensifies during dark days.

Ready, But Not Ready

Our eagerness to see Jesus ideally should not be related to our present circumstances, but as the saying goes, “we’re only human.” The conundrum, as I see it, is that we are content with remaining here when things are going well in life. When things are difficult, we long for Christ’s return. But when things are difficult, people are most open to hearing the gospel’s good news.

Perhaps, when things are chaotic, we should ask the Lord for just a little bit more time to tell others that there is a God in heaven who loves them and the Savior who gave his life for them. As we look at the world today, can we be patient like our heavenly Father is patient because we, too, are not willing that anyone should not be saved?

The Valley of Decision

Crowds, great crowds are in the valley of decision, for the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision! Joel 3:14 (NET)

It is not wise to compare our present time with previous times. We do not have the perspective or the clarity of vision to make such a judgment. We know from our text in Isaiah that regardless of how bad it is, it will not go on forever. That is the undeniable dynamic of human existence.

Let’s propose that instead of seeking our own personal relief, we intercede and ask God to send another great awakening, another revival, a fresh outpouring of his Spirit on all humanity. Is that just crazy talk?

When Jesus looked at crowds of people, we were told that “he was moved with compassion, because they were like sheep without a shepherd.” Mark 6:34. What is our reaction to the many people surrounding us? Does our heart long to see the crowds come to Jesus to receive everlasting life?

Joel’s words should be at the forefront of our hearts and minds as we know the day of the Lord is near. Christ’s return will be a joyous occasion for many, but let us make it our mission to persuade as many as possible to “call upon the name of the Lord.”

A Little While Longer

I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live. Philippians 1:23–24 (NLT)

Ideally, present circumstances should not alter our desire to see Christ, but that is not always the case. Life presents us with conflicts. He is our Lord and Savior, and it is only natural for us to desire to be with him, but how many people, including friends and loved ones, are still in “the valley of decision?”

Paul wrote to Timothy from prison and, although Paul was in chains, said: But God’s word is not chained. Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. 2 Timothy 2:9–10 (NIV)

I am still fascinated by the word “nevertheless.” It implies that things can be going in a particular direction, but God can intervene and alter the course of human events. Dear Lord, please send revival!

Steve Ekeroth

Photo by Gaetan THURIN: