In order to build proper spiritual formation into the fabric of the lives of your congregation, as a pastor you have to address a number of critical issues that will enable your people to face the challenges of life with the mindset of our Savior. Helping them know how to face disasters that might come into their lives is one of those many issues.
No one likes to talk about potential disasters, let alone think or plan for them. Yet, throughout the Book of Revelation, the Bible speaks clearly of disasters that may come at the end of the age. We don’t think about “disaster preparedness” very much in the church. But, one of the reasons God prompted the Apostle John to write this somewhat mysterious text is to “reveal” to us what lies down the road.
Of course, you could argue that we do not yet stand at the precipice looking out across what very well may happen in either our lifetimes or the lifetimes of our children and grandchildren. And, you could be right. Bible scholars certainly have a wide variety of opinions on that matter.
But, just in case dire things do lie ahead for those who have aligned themselves with the Great King Jesus, wouldn’t it be wise to take some time to study what might happen and develop some godly strategies for responding to those predicted events?
Part of spiritual formation is to develop the disciplines that will build Christian character into the hearts and minds of believers. It’s not enough to be able to come to worship once a week. Believers who are growing in their spiritual maturity need to learn key steps that will help them move ever closer to God and find themselves adopting a Christ-like mindset in their approach to the world.
So, let me urge you, as you shepherd your flock, to begin to teach them the kinds of spiritual disciplines that will find them in good stead should the dark days revealed by the Apostle John come to pass in their lifetimes.
And, if you want to hear me talk more about this vital subject, I invite you to listen to this week’s Sermon-Coach.com Podcast No. 181, where I explore this topic in somewhat greater depth. Simply follow the link on this page to connect with the Sermon-Coach website.
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Please click here to visit David Mains’ Sermon-Coach.com website.
You will also find a variety of resources for pastors and congregations at the Mainstay Ministries website. Please click here.
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