How many times have we used the phrase, “The beginning of the end?” It’s most common use is when we see change taking place. 2012 is beginning to do just that—changes that are aligning themselves with God’s Word. Let me give you just a few examples:
- Iran is boldly following its plan to develop nuclear technology. Two weeks ago, they boasted that they had begun processing nuclear enriched fuel rods. The EU and other western nations are debating to put an embargo against Iran for continuing down this path. Iran’s leaders simply mock the perceived weakness of the West due to their need for oil that passes through the Straight of Hormuz.
- Syrian president Assad is preparing for a civil war as he continues to try and quell the civilian uprising in that nation. Fear is that he could back a war against Israel to turn attention away from him.
- Russia has sold Iran sophisticated anti-aircraft missiles in hopes of protecting the Iranian nuclear facilities from an attack.
- The Egyptian uprising that began this time last year, it now coming full circle as the people rebel against the military powers that they once supported.
- Meanwhile, the Muslim Brotherhood that everyone said was harmless has all but taken control of the political arena in Egypt and stretching into other nations.
All the while, Israel is being surrounded by hostiles equipped, funded and trained by Iran with the aid of Russia. Israel’s leaders are preparing for what appears to be certain war instigated by Iran and its proxy states.
Ancient prophecies in the Bible point to two events that will signal the apocalyptic end times—Isaiah 17:1 says, “Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap.” The other is Ezekiel 38 where it is said that Gog, Magog, Persia, Ethiopia and Libya will come against Israel and be defeated. These are widely thought to be Russia, Iran, Northern Africa and the former Persian Empire.
I believe that 2012 will see an increase in the tumultuous changes already at work across the earth. The aligning of these nations is occurring stronger each day and the end result seems to point toward war against Israel. “Will it come this year?” The experts say “yes”—only God knows for sure. However, He points out for us in His Word the signs of the times. Why? That we may know the time is near and that we might soberly be about our Father’s business. No fear—just assurance that God’s Word is true and that Jesus is coming soon.
So watch and pray and live with confidence that God is in control!
Comments