When we read the Bible, it is clear that the world we live in is becoming increasingly evil. There are more wicked people than good ones. More people are essentially atheists (not believing in God) than those who genuinely believe. Even though their mouths say they are believers and religious, in reality, they deny the true essence of worship. Practically speaking, they are “practical atheists.” In a world like this, as stated in 2 Timothy 3:1-5, it can seem as if God is dead, as if He does not exist. Added to this is the reality that some clergy within Christian circles commit moral violations and turn ministry into a means of making money.
These things cause people to become sceptical, unmotivated, suspicious, and doubtful that God is truly real. On top of that, life’s many problems press down on us, which makes it challenging to choose to believe in God and follow Him wholeheartedly. Then, when we try to follow God, it may seem as if He does not care, does not respond, or even does not exist at all. The problems we face remain unsolved, and our needs continue to go unmet. Worse still, when we are oppressed, bullied, or pressured by others, it may feel as though God does not defend us, leaving us weak.
We may conclude that whether we follow Jesus wholeheartedly or not, it makes no difference. We pray, join Morning Prayer even when we’re sleepy, join Night Prayer even when we’re tired, yet nothing seems to change in our lives — sometimes God still feels absent. It is precisely in times like this that we need what is called perseverance, and there must also be faithfulness in perseverance.
When the Bible says, “The wickedness of man is increasing,” it reveals a dark reality. In this godless age, people lose their fear of God, His laws are ignored, and the increasingly rampant spirit of atheism poisons the atmosphere of life. But we must endure, as 2 Timothy 3:1 says: “In the last days perilous times will come…” and in verse 5, “…having a form of godliness but denying its power.” The true power of worship is fellowship with God that produces holiness of life and a heart unattached to the world. And for this, perseverance is needed!
It is undeniable that some will fall away, lose their perseverance, which is our concern — when the rhythm, the passion, the fire in us fades and may never burn again. We should instead be fervent in seeking God, staying steadfast, continuing to persevere, until we never fade like a machine that keeps running without ever stopping. Yes, we may grow weak at the start, but God will give us many things when we persevere in Him. Like a machine that runs more and more smoothly, we will reach a point where we cannot turn back to the world.
We must choose to believe in God and follow His ways. Even though it’s unpopular and not well-liked, we must still select it. We must truly experience God personally. Perhaps we don’t need to tell others or testify about it, but we must experience the living God for ourselves. And that experience with the living God will inevitably radiate through our lives.