Dietrich Bonhoeffer's words slice through time like a prophetic arrow: "We must finally stop appealing to theology to justify our reserved silence about what the state is doing — for that is nothing but fear. 'Open your mouth for the one who is voiceless' — for who in the church today still remembers that that is the least of the Bible's demands in times such as these?"
Generational disillusionment is a complex issue that has impacted every cohort, from Baby Boomers to Generation Alpha. Each generation has faced unique challenges and sociopolitical contexts that have shaped their worldviews and left them disillusioned in various ways. Disillusionment, in this context, refers to a deep sense of disappointment or disconnection with the expectations, dreams and ideals that shaped their formative years.
Throughout the Old and New Testaments, angels have played a pivotal part in delivering messages, protection, and even warnings. Angels are eternal beings, and they are still involved in the world today. Given the state of affairs, they are probably very busy! I have personally experienced the ministry of angels since I was a very young child. My first encounter was when I was about 7-8 years of age. I had just been tucked into bed, and the lights were out when I felt someone sit on the bed next to me. I felt an incredibly warm, safe feeling associated with the pressure next to my legs.
Every human heart is wired with a deep need for meaning—a longing to live a life that matters. That yearning drives countless people to chase success, admire those who seem to "have it all together," and buy into formulas that promise quick results. But for the people of God, significance and success are not found in imitation or trends—they are discovered in alignment with the One who created them for amazing plans and great exploits. Jesus laid out the foundational principle: "Apart from Me, you can do nothing." That's not a discouragement; it's a revelation.
This message is for those who just can't seem to get the direction they most desire in the situation they find themselves in, which- if honest - they sincerely feel God doesn't seem to be interested at all! "Jesus Christ: the same yesterday, today and forever" (Heb.13:8). Remember - everything always begins. continues & ends with Christ: "For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever" (Ro.11:36 NIV). The following foundations are essential for all believers who seek to have a fruitful walk with God, leading to maturity.
I am praying for the Church to learn again how to target the enemy in prayer. I just read another post on social media for a young child fighting brain cancer, and the family is begging online to strangers for prayer! I believe a few churches pray for people, but not in agreement like they used to do. It takes some efforts, but without it, we lose precious life ground! I can think of reasons why they don't, but let's talk about why they should! The Enemy is pushing the Church back by its lack of prayer. And God just thinks we don't really care!
We all have areas where we would like to see growth and change. And we all have weaknesses just as we all have strengths. But if we're trying to change in our own strength, we're just going to have frustration. Psalm 127:1 says, "Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain" (NIV). This scripture is saying that it is not just by our effort, but by the grace of God through the work of His Holy Spirit, that we change and grow in life. It doesn't really matter what our strengths or weaknesses are because we will always need God. The truth is, we're desperate for God all the time whether we feel like it or not.
When the enemy comes in like a flood the Lord raises up a standard against him. When he says that the fire we go through will burn us, we tell him to flee and say what is true! The fire of His love will purge out of us anything that is hindering us to conform into His image, to trust Him, to need Him, to not be complacent or independent, but most of all so that we would become "on fire" for Him. If it takes coming down to death's door to get us to really draw near to Him, He will use the enemy that way.
The first chapter of Hebrews describes two supernatural ministries that are available to us today: the ministry of Jesus and the ministry of angels. Jesus' ministry is much greater, but the angels play an important part in our lives. "But to which of the angels has He ever said: 'Sit at My right hand, till I make your enemies your footstool'? Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?" (Hebrews 1:13-14) This verse defines the role of angels. They are ministering spirits. We, being born-again, are the heirs of salvation. We continue now into chapter 2, verse 1: "Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away."
Whenever we face trials and difficulties, the devil will make us feel as though all hope is gone. He will try to convince us that the darkness will never lift, and there is no way out of this mess. Don't entertain those negative, evil thoughts! The Bible instructs us to trust in the Lord for His rescue, His wisdom and His help. No matter what we face, Jesus promised to never leave us nor forsake us. There is always hope when we put our trust in God.
Follow Up
