The world has changed, and the change is certain to continue. Our feeling of security, both physical and economical, is not the same as it once was. And though our security may return for a season, it will surely fade with the next news report or economic downturn. And yet, there is hope!
Say the numbers 9-11 and nearly everyone in the world knows the exact reference – September 11th, 2001; a day of pure terror. Memorial pools of water now occupy the ground where two massive 110 story towers once stood. It’s hard to believe it’s been ten years. Like most of you I vividly remember watching the reports in disbelief. How could this happen, and what does it all mean? The world has changed.
On September 12th, 2001, I wrote a message which tried to bring some comfort and help turn our focus toward a loving God. In doing so it was necessary to help us take our eyes off the unstable security and pleasure of the world. The next three paragraphs are from that message.
1 Corinthians 7:29,31
“What I mean, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on…those who use the things of the world, {use them} as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.”
If there is any good to come out of the evil actions of yesterday, it will only be as we resolve to “fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.” We must allow these images to firmly establish that “what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18).
It’s time we experience a true revival and do ALL as unto the Lord. We can no longer give our lives to what is temporary and passing away. It’s time we unashamedly worship Him and follow where He leads. It’s time we draw close to His presence and remember the eternal.
For several Sundays after 9-11 church attendance climbed to new highs. People were scared and confused, hoping to find answers with God. Unfortunately, it did not take long for this portion of life to return to “normal.” The questions faded and focus changed before any answers had the chance set; only a few would experience a true revival.
The world has changed and continues to change. And yet, there is hope! Of course, hope is found in the one thing which does not change. It is my prayer today that we would reflect back to a time when we were seeking answers, to a time when priorities seemed clear, to a time when our focus was on the eternal. Our life needs a revival. For the changes which lie ahead we will require a true and lasting revival. Let’s be careful to not allow our life to return to a normal which is distant from God. Let’s focus hard on what is lasting as we remember 9-11.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries
