When I watch the news, I often feel like things are shifting in the wrong direction, in Canada and elsewhere in the world. From governance to morality, the world is changing.
There is an instruction in 1 Peter 4:7 that I find particularly helpful in those moments: “The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled, so that you can pray.”
With these few words, Peter brings our attention back to the heart of our mission and gives us a practical way to navigate the turmoil around us.
Whatever surrounds us by way of news, influence, morality, and messages about how we should live, Peter’s words give us a way forward that is clear. We never need to let ourselves be drawn in to the ways of this world, nor should world events make us feel that there is nothing we can do about anything.
The Scriptures encourage us to keep a sober mind. This includes thinking about this life with a biblical worldview which always keeps God at the centre. When we process what is happening around us and in our immediate circumstances, we can turn to the Lord with confidence. As the prophet Isaiah promised, he is our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
True, the world continues in turmoil, but there is a purpose to our being in the world, hard as it can be at times. We are salt and light, says Jesus, appointed to be his witnesses wherever we are. That’s very different from seeing ourselves at the mercy of events and culture.
When leaders forget God and his ways and lead entire nations away from his word, we can do one of two things. We can let the dark realities sweep over us and hold our thoughts and emotions or we can find refuge, hope and direction in our Saviour.
I’m grateful for how Peter tells his readers to be clear minded. Regardless of circumstances it is important to keep thinking rightly about who we are in the world, who God is to us today and throughout history.
One commentator writes of Peter’s first letter, “The warmth of his expressions combined with his practical instructions make this epistle a unique source of encouragement for all believers who live in conflict with their culture.” Given the times we’re in, it might be helpful to keep this important letter close at hand.
When we spend time in God’s word and ponder who we are by his redemptive work in our lives and who he is in his unchangeable being, we find strength, courage, and direction.
Today, in Canada and in nation after nation, arguments and debates abound, even brutal hostility and wars. But prayer must overabound.
Prayer is the goal of Peter’s instruction. Be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.
As we watch our nation slip further and further away from the biblical guidance that governed our society for a long time, we remember that our purpose is unchanging. You and I may not have a role in the halls of government or in the courtrooms of the nation, but we do have a critical role and significant place in the courts of our God.
As we celebrate another anniversary for our nation, let’s remember the Canadian church, our governments, and the people who live here.
Here are a few prayer suggestions.
Let’s pray…
- For a historic outpouring of God’s Holy Spirit upon Canada — upon its leaders at every level of society and upon the over 41 million people who live here.
- For revival to come to the church across Canada; for renewed devotion to the Lord, his word, and his mission; for a renewed vision of the spiritual harvest and a commitment to reach people with the gospel of salvation, hope, and eternal life.
- For those serving in government that they would not impede the advancement of the church’s mission and the spread of the gospel of Christ.
- For Christians everywhere that they would not become weary in well-doing or be swayed away from godly principles.
- For freedom of Christian beliefs and expression to be protected in Canada.
- For an awakening of conscience among Justices and lawmakers, that they would value human life, protect it, and ensure that people who suffer and are in despair would receive the care they need.
As Peter reminds us, the end of all things is near, but it is not over yet. Let’s be faithful in prayer with our thoughts fixed on the Lord who will love this world until he returns to make all things new.
