A Salute to Those Who Stayed With the Stuff

COVER LETTER

Dearly Beloved:

MAY THE PEACE OF GOD ABIDE IN YOU.

A Christian woman approached me recently with a rather emotional countenance and asked me if I had heard the latest news report. It was about an upheaval in Pakistan. “Can you believe what is happening? Every day is a bad-news day. Pakistan has nuclear capacity; terrorists could take over and some mad Ayatollah could launch us into nuclear war.” Shaking her head, she said, “I am really scared. Things are spinning out of control.”

People are scared all over the world now. The warning of Jesus is being fulfilled, that a day would come when men’s hearts would fail as they witness the things coming on the earth.

Those who have received my monthly messages know that for the past two years I cried out warnings about the coming housing crisis. I warned a crash was imminent. I preached it from the pulpit with tears.

Having said all of this, I want to give you a clear word from God’s heart — a word of encouragement. In spite of all the frightening news, God still has everything under control.

This is the Word we believers must stand upon as the storm rages around us: “Let not your hearts be troubled, neither be afraid” (John 14:27). These are troubling times. But it is in such times the Word of God becomes our strength and hope.

• “The Lord will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. They that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee” (Psalm 9:9–10).

• “In the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock” (Psalm 27:5).

The most fearful, troubling days are ahead. I see nothing but growing despair for those who are not daily in God’s Word and praying and talking to the Lord. It is the Word of God that lifts our spirits and produces faith. Discipline yourself now to open your Bible in the morning and start your day getting encouraged with precious promises. Then talk to the Lord, even as you prepare for the day. Ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen your faith and hope.

There is one Scripture I repeat many times each day. I urge you to claim and believe it: “Cast all your care upon him, for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

The Lord keep you, comfort you, and cause his face to shine on you.

Love in Christ,
DAVID WILKERSON

DW:bbm 11.26.07