Safe in Every Situation

The Bible says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7, NKJV).

I have often wondered if the recession in my time will turn into a deep, long depression. Is this the economic storm so many ministers and economists have been warning of? Or is this merely another short-lived adjustment of the economy?

Frankly, not one human on earth knows for certain. Economists give terribly conflicting forecasts, and so-called “prophets” are sending out all kinds of confusing warnings. Several years ago, hundreds of worried Christians wrote to me about a prophecy that said most of Florida would be inundated by a tidal wave. Many Christians slipped out of Florida on the predicted date for a so-called “vacation”, just in case the prophecy was right. Obviously, Florida is still with us.

No one knows when, how, or where God will send judgment. The times and seasons are all in his hands. God has dealt with me personally about using dates, names, or places. When I disobey God on this matter, I end up speculating rather than truly prophesying. All true prophecy must offer hope and comfort to God's people who live by faith.

Where do you live? Is it in an earthquake zone, maybe near a fault line? Do you live in a sprawling suburb that seems less secure as the days go by? No food stored up? No gold bars or coins to hedge against inflation? Nothing to fall back on if the economy collapses? Nothing to live on if you lose your job? Do you feel left out when others around you boast about their plans for the future?

The more I read the words of Jesus, the more I believe he is asking for our childlike trust in him to keep us safe in every situation. You have all you need if you will believe in our Lord's promise of protection. My advice is to quit listening to voices that speak warnings contrary to scripture. “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33).

“Do not be afraid of sudden terror, nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes; for the Lord will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught” (Proverbs 3:25-26).