Understanding Today’s Challenges with Clarity and Kindness
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)
The world is moving fast, and it’s not always easy to keep up. If you look around, you might notice that the church is facing new challenges every day. There are all kinds of ideas in the air—some helpful, some confusing, and some that quietly pull us away from what’s true. That’s why now, more than ever, it’s important for the church to stay alert and pay close attention to what we believe.
Why Knowing the Bible Matters
The Bible isn’t just an old book to pick up once in a while—it’s meant to be our everyday guide. Think of it as a map when you’re on a trip. If you don’t know what the map says, you could easily get lost. In the same way, when we don’t know the Bible well, it becomes hard to tell the difference between what’s true and what just sounds good. By spending time reading and understanding the Bible, we can make better choices and avoid following teachings that lead us away from God’s truth.
Staying Steady in a Changing World
Have you ever watched a boat get tossed around by big waves? That’s what happens when our beliefs don’t have a solid foundation. Today, opinions and “truths” change quickly—especially on the internet and social media. It’s easy to get caught up or start believing something that isn’t right. That’s why we need to know the Bible well and ask God for wisdom, so we can stand firm no matter what storms come our way.
How Can We Respond?
· Leaders: Pastors, teachers, and church leaders should make the Bible the center of everything the church does, from Sunday gatherings to everyday life.
· Parents: Teach your children about the Bible and show them, by example, how important it is in daily life.
· Everyone: Take time each day to read and think about the Bible. Pray about what you learn, and talk about God with others who want to grow in faith.
A Reason for Hope
The good news is that, even with all these challenges, God has not changed. His Word is still true, still powerful, and it still lights our way. When we stick together and focus on what really matters, the church can shine like a light in a world that sometimes feels dark and confusing. Let’s encourage each other to keep learning, stand firm, and trust God’s guidance. When the Bible is close to our hearts and we walk in its light, we can face anything with courage and faith.
What Does the Bible Say About Staying Alert?
The Bible has a lot to say about staying awake and being watchful. Here are a few important verses, explained in simple terms:
· 1 Peter 5:8: This verse tells us to “be alert and of sober mind.” It compares the devil to a roaring lion, always looking for someone to trick or harm. Staying alert helps us avoid his traps.
· 1 Thessalonians 5:6: Here, believers are encouraged to stay awake and alert, not to fall into a kind of spiritual sleep like others might. It’s a call to pay attention and not let our guard down.
· Mark 13:33-37: Jesus tells a story about a master who leaves his servants in charge and tells them to stay awake because he could return at any time. The message: always be ready and watchful, because we don’t know when Jesus will come back.
· 1 Peter 4:7: This verse links the “end of all things” with the need to be clear-minded and watchful in prayer. It’s a call to be serious about prayer as we wait and watch.
· 1 Peter 1:13: Believers are told to prepare their minds for action, to be self-controlled, and to put their hope in God’s grace. It’s about being ready for whatever comes.
· Matthew 24:42: This verse simply says to stay alert, because we do not know the day or hour when Jesus will return. It’s a reminder not to get lazy or distracted.
· Ephesians 6:18: We’re told to pray with an alert mind and to always be watchful in prayer for all God’s people.
In short, the Bible encourages us not to drift through life, but to stay awake, alert, and connected to God. Let’s remind each other that, even when times are tough or confusing, we have hope, and we have each other. With God’s help, we can stand firm and shine brightly in a changing world.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 