Welcome back friends! If you have not been following, this is the 5th post in a mini-series called Understanding the Times. If you missed previous parts of this series, find them here:

• The Spread of Immorality
• God Wants Our Attention
• What About America?
• Israel’s Place in Bible Prophecy

We have already touched on America, but it bears repeating that, when studying Bible prophecy, it is important to understand that the US is not mentioned anywhere in Scripture. We will be a non-player in the end, but we have a purpose now. Just as God called Israel to a unique purpose (to be the vehicle of world redemption), I believe God’s sovereignty led America to be built upon a Biblical foundation with a unique calling as well: to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth. We also played the part of “big brother” to Israel in her infancy stage. Those bonds are eroding as the current administration is attempting to destroy them.

But, my how we have fallen. Is there hope for America? Only if the body of Christ in America chooses to stop compromising the truth of God’s Word and begins to live it out. It includes the pulpit, the pews, and in our families. When the Holy Spirit of God is allowed to lead in every area, change will occur. Change in the church then spreads to communities and, eventually, the nation. It is the only hope for America, and a weak America puts other nations at risk.

For decades, the United States has been the world’s greatest superpower, but we’re losing the edge quickly, leaving allies and neutral countries at risk from radical regimes. Matthew 24 warns of wars and rumors of wars, pandemics, natural disasters and other things. Moreover, verse 24 of that chapter warns of false Christs and false prophets who will spread deception.

We are seeing those things come to fruition in minor ways that will grow into major issues as we continue through these last days. But God’s prophetic promises fill us with hope. Bible prophecy is not meant to scare, but to prepare, and we can be certain of God’s faithfulness to those of us who know Him.

If you have never put your faith and trust in Jesus to forgive you of your sins and provide an eternal home in heaven, it is time to take Him up on His promises. God loves you and desires that you spend eternity with Him. For that reason, God sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to die a brutal death in order to provide salvation. Being sinless, He is the perfect sacrifice for all the wrong we have done, and He invites us to receive His forgiveness.

To receive Jesus, just pray something like this:

"Dear God, I have done wrong things and I ask You to forgive me. I want you to come into my life to wash away the guilt of my sin, and I want to live forever in Your grace. I believe that Jesus came and died for my sins, and that He rose again on the third day to make salvation possible. Right now, I accept that free gift and I ask Jesus to be my Lord and Savior. Thank you, Jesus. Amen."

Your prayer does not have to be perfect, but your desire must be true. Hand over your sins to Jesus and He will give you eternal life! Welcome to the family of God! (PS: Now, find a Bible believing church to help you grow in your faith!)

One more post to go in our Understanding the Times series. See you back here again tomorrow!