FINAL TEST: THE DARKENED EARTH WEEPS!

“Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” Matthew 24:44

ABSTRACT

Human history nears its end with God’s judgments unfolding. This article explores the time of trouble using Scriptures and the inspired writings of Ellen G. White, to guide the path before us. It covers desolation after probation, anguish of the lost, and deliverance of the faithful in accessible style that resonates with a broad audience. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The sacred scriptures provide evidence of this truth, as seen in the parable of the vine and branches, where separation from the source leads to withering. Sr. White vividly describes this necessity, stating, “The ‘time of trouble, such as never was,’ is soon to open upon us; and we shall need an experience which we do not now possess and which many are too indolent to obtain. It is often the case that trouble is greater in anticipation than in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us. The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal.” (The Great Controversy, p. 622, 1911). She further emphasizes, “We are living in the time of the end. The fast-fulfilling signs of the times declare that the coming of Christ is near at hand. The days in which we live are solemn and important. The Spirit of God is gradually but surely being withdrawn from the earth. Plagues and judgments are already falling upon the despisers of the grace of God. The calamities by land and sea, the unsettled state of society, the alarms of war, are portentous. They forecast approaching events of the greatest magnitude.” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 11, 1909). “For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.” (Matthew 24:21, KJV). “And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.” (Daniel 12:1, KJV). We grasp these truths urgently to prepare ourselves and those around us for the momentous events that lie ahead.

FINAL JUDGMENT FURY!

The curtain is drawing to a close on human history, and with it, the final, terrifying acts of God’s judgment will unfold. This essay aims to explore the chilling realities of the time of trouble, drawing from the sacred scriptures and the inspired writings of Ellen G. White, to illuminate the path before us. We will delve into the desolation that follows the close of probation, the anguish of the lost, and the glorious deliverance of the faithful, all while maintaining a clear, accessible style that resonates with a broad audience. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The sacred scriptures provide evidence of this truth, as seen in the parable of the vine and branches, where separation from the source leads to withering. Sr. White vividly describes this necessity, stating, “Those who delay a preparation for the day of God cannot obtain it in the time of trouble or at any subsequent time. The case of all such is hopeless.” (The Great Controversy, p. 620, 1911). She further emphasizes, “The events connected with the close of probation and the work of preparation for the time of trouble, are clearly presented. But multitudes have no more understanding of these important truths than if they had never been revealed.” (The Great Controversy, p. 594, 1911). “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” (2 Peter 3:10, KJV). “Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness.” (2 Peter 3:11, KJV). We must understand, not just intellectually, but viscerally, the urgency of these prophetic truths, so that we may prepare ourselves and those around us for the momentous events that lie ahead. But what grips the earth when probation closes?

PROBATION’S PLIGHT!

The moment probation closes, a spiritual famine will grip the earth, a hunger for the very words of God. “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it.” (Amos 8:11-12). Imagine a world where the divine voice is utterly silent, where the comfort of scripture is no longer available. Sr. White vividly describes this desolation, stating, “What would they not give for one word of approval from God! But no, they must hunger and thirst on. Day after day have they slighted salvation, prising earthly riches and earthly treasure higher than any heavenly treasure or inducement. They have rejected Jesus and despised His saints. The filthy must remain filthy forever.” (Early Writings, pp. 281, 282). The weight of neglected opportunities and rejected grace will crush the soul, leaving only the bitter taste of regret. “Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh; When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me: For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord:”(Proverbs 1:24-29) and “And he that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.”(Revelation 22:11). “Those who have neglected to improve their opportunities to become acquainted with the word of God, and have not distinguished between it and the traditions and fables of men, will be in the time of trouble like those who were in the time of the flood without the ark. They will be found wanting. They have not the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. They have not a living connection with God.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 213). “Those who have not made God their strength, will find that their spirit will give way under the test. Though they have made some profession of faith, yet they have not brought their feet into the strait and narrow path. They have not left the world, and have not submitted to the cross of Christ.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 213). Sr. White also writes, “When Christ shall cease His work as mediator in man’s behalf, then this time of trouble will begin. Then the case of every soul will have been decided, and there will be no atoning blood to cleanse from sin.” (Last Day Events, p. 253, 1992). Furthermore, “The end is near, probation is closing. Oh, let us seek God while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near!” (Messages to Young People, pp. 89, 90, 1930). The Bible echoes this with “For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?” (Revelation 6:17, KJV) and “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.” (Isaiah 55:6, KJV). In our present day, many dismiss the urgency of spiritual preparation, chasing fleeting pleasures and earthly gains. This spiritual apathy, however, will culminate in a desperate, unfulfilled yearning when the door of mercy is finally shut. But what consumes the wicked as the plagues descend?

PLAGUES’ PANIC!

As the plagues descend, the wicked will be consumed by a soul-crushing anguish, their hearts filled with terror and remorse. “Many of the wicked were greatly enraged, as they suffered the effect of the plagues. It was a scene of fearful agony. Parents were bitterly reproaching their children, and children their parents, brothers their sisters, and sisters their brothers. Loud, wailing cries were heard in every direction.” (Early Writings, p. 26a). The very fabric of society will unravel, as families turn against each other in a frenzy of blame and despair. The words of Christ will ring true: “Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us.” (Luke 23:30). “And they shall go into the holes of the rocks, and into the caves of the earth, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth.” (Isaiah 2:19). “And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?” (Revelation 6:15-17). “Those who would not accept the light which God has given, will see only the wrath of God. They will realize what they have lost. They will see the happiness of the saved, and will realize that they have chosen the society of Satan and his angels, in the place of the society of Christ and the heavenly angels.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 645). “The wicked are filled with regret, not because of their sinful neglect of God and their fellow men, but because God has conquered. They lament that the result is what it is; but they do not repent of their wickedness.” (The Great Controversy, p. 654). Sr. White also writes, “Many of the wicked were greatly enraged as they suffered the effects of the plagues. It was a scene of fearful agony.” (Maranatha, p. 260, 1976). Furthermore, “The plagues were falling upon the inhabitants of the earth. Some were denouncing God and cursing Him. Others rushed to the people of God and begged to be taught how they might escape His judgments. But the saints had nothing for them.” (Early Writings, p. 282, 1882). The Bible echoes this with “The sinners in Zion are afraid; fearfulness hath surprised the hypocrites. Who among us shall dwell with the devouring fire? who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings?” (Isaiah 33:14, KJV) and “There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out.” (Luke 13:28, KJV). This is not mere physical pain; it is the torment of a conscience laid bare, the realization of eternal loss. In today’s world, we witness the erosion of familial bonds and the rise of societal discord. These are but foreshadows of the utter chaos that will engulf the earth when God’s restraining hand is withdrawn. Can we fathom the horror of a world where love is replaced by unbridled hatred and regret? But what plunges the earth into final chaos when angels release the winds?

STRIFE STORM SURGE!

When the angels of God release the winds of strife, the earth will be plunged into a final, cataclysmic chaos. “Satan will then plunge the inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble. As the angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the elements of strife will be let loose. The whole world will be involved in ruin more terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of old.” (The Great Controversy, p. 614). Revelation 16 describes the outpouring of God’s wrath in vivid detail, a series of plagues that will devastate the earth. “And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done. And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great. And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath. And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found. And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great.” Revelation 16:17-21. The imagery of smoke filling the temple signifies that the time of intercession is over. “And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his power; and no man was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.” (Revelation 15:8). “And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.” (Luke 21:25-26). “The earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard, and shall be removed like a cottage; and the transgression thereof shall be heavy upon it; and it shall fall, and not rise again.” (Isaiah 24:20). “In the time of trouble, just before the closing scene of this world’s history, faithful men, like Elijah, will be stirred by the Spirit of God to call to the world to repent, and to prepare for the day of the Lord’s appearing. They will cry, ‘Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.’” (Prophets and Kings, p. 187). “As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third angel’s message, but have not been sanctified through obedience to the truth, abandon their position, and join the ranks of the opposition. By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, they have come to view things in nearly the same light; and when the test is brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side.” (The Great Controversy, p. 608). Sr. White also writes, “The restraining Spirit of God is even now being withdrawn from the world. Hurricanes, storms, tempests, fire and flood, disasters by sea and land, follow each other in quick succession. Science seeks to explain all these. The signs thickening around us, telling of the near approach of the Son of God, are attributed to any other than the true cause.” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 408, 1900). Furthermore, “The days in which we live are solemn and important. The Spirit of God is gradually but surely being withdrawn from the earth. Plagues and judgments are already falling upon the despisers of the grace of God.” (Christian Service, p. 52, 1925). The Bible echoes this with “For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.” (Matthew 24:7, KJV) and “And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring.” (Luke 21:25, KJV). In our current climate of global unrest and environmental degradation, we see the signs of this impending turmoil. The earth groans under the weight of sin, and the day of its final cleansing draws near. But what intense spiritual struggle awaits God’s people in the time of Jacob’s trouble?

JACOB’S JOLT!

The time of Jacob’s trouble will be a period of intense spiritual struggle for God’s people. “Jacob’s night of anguish, when he wrestled in prayer for deliverance from the hand of Esau, represents the experience of God’s people in the time of trouble… On reaching the borders of the land, he was filled with terror by the tidings of Esau’s approach at the head of a band of warriors, doubtless bent upon revenge… As he reviewed his life, he was driven almost to despair; but he held fast the Angel, and with earnest, agonizing cries, urged his petition until he prevailed.” (The Great Controversy, pp. 616). Just as Jacob wrestled with the Angel, pleading for a blessing, the saints will wrestle with God in fervent prayer, seeking assurance and strength. “Had not Jacob previously repented of his sin in obtaining the birthright by fraud, God could not have heard his prayer and mercifully preserved his life.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 202). This experience is not about physical strength, but spiritual endurance, a test of faith in the face of overwhelming odds. “So in the time of trouble, if the people of God had unconfessed sins to appear before them while tortured with fear and anguish, they would be overwhelmed; despair would cut off their faith, and they could not have confidence to plead with God for deliverance. Jacob’s history is an assurance that God will not cast off those who have been betrayed into sin, but who have returned unto Him with true repentance.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 203). “And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day. And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob’s thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him. And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.” (Genesis 32:24-26). “And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness. The meek also shall increase their joy in the Lord, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.” (Isaiah 29:18-19). “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Isaiah 41:10). “The people of God will not be free from suffering; but while persecuted and distressed, while they bear the reproach of infamy and are assailed by the fiercest storms of satanic wrath, they will possess that peace which Christ has promised. No power on earth can rob the saints of this peace.” (The Great Controversy, p. 623). “When the people of God are sorely pressed, not by human power, but by the shutting up of the powers of nature, they will remember how God delivered Israel, and how he interposed for his people in all ages.” (The Great Controversy, p. 623). Sr. White also writes, “The season of distress and anguish before us will require a faith that can endure weariness, delay, and hunger—a faith that will not faint, though severely tried.” (The Great Controversy, p. 621, 1911). Furthermore, “Jacob prevailed because he was persevering and determined. His experience testifies to the power of importunate prayer.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 203, 1890). The Bible echoes this with “Call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.” (Psalm 50:15, KJV) and “The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.” (Psalm 9:9, KJV). In our daily lives, we must strive for complete surrender, confessing and forsaking our sins, so that we may stand firm in the day of trial. But what persecution faces God’s people as the decree issues?

DECREE DOOM!

As the decree for their destruction is issued, God’s people will face persecution unlike any seen before. “When the protection of human laws shall be withdrawn from those who honor the law of God, there will be, in different lands, a simultaneous movement for their destruction. As the time appointed in the decree draws near, the people will conspire to root out the hated sect. It will be determined to strike in one night a decisive blow, which shall utterly silence the voice of dissent and reproof.” (The Great Controversy, p. 635). The world will unite in hatred against those who remain faithful to God’s commandments. “The mountains quake at him, and the hills melt, and the earth is burned at his presence, yea, the world, and all that dwell therein.” (Nahum 1:5). “Woe to the rebellious and polluting city! to the oppressing city! She obeyed not the voice; she received not correction; she trusted not in the Lord; she drew not near to her God. Her princes within her are roaring lions; her judges are evening wolves; they gnaw not the bones till the morrow. Her prophets are light and treacherous persons: her priests have polluted the sanctuary, they have done violence to the law.” (Zephaniah 3:1-4). “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” (Matthew 10:22). “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” (2 Timothy 3:12). “Then will the work of God move forward with great power, as the third angel’s message swells to a loud cry. Many will embrace the truth. The Lord’s power will be revealed. His glory will be seen. The faithful workers will be emboldened and strengthened. Many will leave the ranks of Satan, and take their stand under the banner of Christ.” (The Great Controversy, p. 612). “But the people of God, strengthened by divine grace, will stand firm, clad in the armor of righteousness.” (The Great Controversy, p. 623). Sr. White also writes, “The decree has been passed by the highest earthly authority that they shall worship the beast and receive his mark under pain of persecution and death. May God help His people now, for what can they then do in such a fearful conflict without His assistance!” (Last Day Events, p. 227, 1992). Furthermore, “When the protection of human laws shall be withdrawn from those who honor the law of God, there will be, in different lands, a simultaneous movement for their destruction.” (The Great Controversy, p. 591, 1911). The Bible echoes this with “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10, KJV) and “If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.” (1 Peter 4:14, KJV). Yet, amidst this chaos, the saints will find strength in their unwavering trust in God’s promises. This is not merely a historical event; it is a future reality that demands our present vigilance. We must cultivate a faith that cannot be shaken by the winds of adversity, a faith that clings to God’s Word as an anchor in the storm. But what unfolds when Christ returns in glory?

RETURN REDEMPTION!

When Christ returns in glory, the final act of redemption will unfold, and the wicked will be consumed by terror. “And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?” (Revelation 6:16-17). But for the righteous, it will be a moment of triumphant joy. “And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” (Isaiah 25:9). “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.” (Revelation 1:7). “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” (Colossians 3:4). “We shall be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” (1 Corinthians 15:52). Sr. White also writes, “The wicked look with terror and amazement upon the scene, while the righteous behold with solemn joy the tokens of their deliverance.” (The Great Controversy, p. 637, 1911). Furthermore, “Soon appeared the great white cloud, upon which sat the Son of man. When it first appeared in the distance, this cloud looked very small. The angel said that it was the sign of the Son of man. As it drew nearer the earth, we could behold the excellent glory and majesty of Jesus as He rode forth to conquer.” (Early Writings, p. 286, 1882). The Bible echoes this with “And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” (Matthew 24:30, KJV) and “Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:13, KJV). The struggles and trials of this life will pale in comparison to the glory that awaits the faithful. This is not a distant fantasy; it is the culmination of God’s plan of salvation, the fulfillment of every promise. We must live with this hope burning brightly in our hearts, allowing it to guide our every action and decision. But how does God’s love manifest in these warnings?

LOVE’S LAST CALL!

God’s love is shown in the very act of warning humanity of what is to come. He does not desire that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. The plagues and judgments, though severe, are not arbitrary acts of wrath. “It is in mercy to the universe that God will finally destroy the rejecters of His grace.” (The Great Controversy, p. 543). By removing sin and its consequences, God ensures the eternal peace and security of His creation. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17). “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8). “God permits the wicked to reveal their true character, that none who desire to do His will may be deceived concerning them. He gives the world unmistakable evidence of what will be the final result of sin. He shows what would be the consequences of His withdrawing His Spirit and His restraining grace from mankind.” (The Great Controversy, p. 615). “In the time of trouble, if the people of God had unconfessed sins to appear before them while tortured with fear and anguish, they would be overwhelmed; despair would cut off their faith, and they could not have confidence to plead with God for deliverance.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 203). Sr. White also writes, “The Spirit of God is gradually but surely being withdrawn from the earth. Plagues and judgments are already falling upon the despisers of the grace of God.” (Calamities and God’s Love; Sin, Judgment, and the Shortness of Time, p. 1, unknown). Furthermore, “The time of God’s destructive judgments is the time of mercy for those who have no opportunity to learn what is truth. Tenderly will the Lord look upon them. His heart of mercy is touched; His hand is still stretched out to save, while the door is closed to those who would not enter.” (Last Day Events, p. 182, 1992). The Bible echoes this with “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9, KJV) and “Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?” (Ezekiel 33:11, KJV). This is not a harsh God, but a loving Father who honors free will. In our own lives, we see this love demonstrated in His patience and long-suffering, His constant invitations to return to Him. We must understand that God’s justice is not opposed to His love, but rather a necessary expression of it. But what primary responsibility falls upon us to God?

My primary responsibility is to surrender my life completely to Christ, allowing Him to transform me into His image. “The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.” (Psalm 121:5-8). This means forsaking the world and its fleeting pleasures, and clinging to Him with unwavering faith. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:1-2). “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.” (1 John 2:15-17). “Those who would share the benefits of the Saviour’s mediation should permit nothing to interfere with their duty to perfect holiness in the fear of God. The precious hours instead of being given to pleasure, to display, or to the gain of earthly treasures, should be devoted to prayer, to the study of the Bible, to searching their own hearts, to reform every defect in their character, and to performing those duties which devolve upon them in the work of salvation.” (The Great Controversy, p. 623). “God calls for a renewal of true godliness. He desires that His people shall awake to their danger, and be on their guard against the temptations of Satan. He calls upon them to arouse, and wash their robes of character in the blood of the Lamb. He bids them live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God, and prepare for the conflict before them.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 213). Sr. White also writes, “Those who take Christ at His word, and surrender their souls to His keeping, their lives to His ordering, will find peace and quietude. Nothing of the world can make them sad when Jesus makes them glad by His presence.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 331, 1898). Furthermore, “Surrender all your plans to Him, to be carried out or given up as His providence shall indicate. Thus day by day you may be giving your life into the hands of God, and thus your life will be molded more and more after the life of Christ.” (Steps to Christ, p. 70, 1892). The Bible echoes this with “Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.” (Psalm 37:5, KJV) and “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2, KJV). Every decision I make must be weighed against His will, every thought and action brought into submission to His Word. This is not a passive faith, but an active, living relationship with God, a constant striving for holiness and obedience. In our daily lives, we must cultivate a spirit of prayer and study, seeking to know Him more intimately, so that we may be prepared for the trials that lie ahead. But what are our responsibilities toward our neighbor in light of these concepts?

In light of these concepts, what are my responsibilities toward my neighbor? I am called to be a watchman, to warn others of the impending judgments and to call them to repentance. “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” (Isaiah 58:1). This is not a task to be taken lightly; it is a sacred duty entrusted to every one of us. We must share the truths of God’s Word with boldness and compassion, not shying away from the difficult topics, but presenting them with clarity and love. “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15). “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15). “We are to warn the people, telling them what is coming upon the earth. This is no time for us to remain silent, no time for us to hold our peace. The message we bear is a life-and-death message, and we must let our voices be heard. God calls upon us to warn the people.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 20). “Let every one who has received the light of truth, walk as children of the light. Let them bear the message of warning to the world. Let them labor for the salvation of souls ready to perish. Let them reflect light to those who are in darkness. Let them warn the people of the coming judgments.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 20). Sr. White also writes, “God expects us to impart to others the knowledge that He has given us. It is His purpose that divine and human instrumentalities shall unite in proclaiming the warning message.” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 19, 1909). Furthermore, “The fearful warning of the prophecy is addressed to every soul. Let no one feel that he is secure from the danger of being surprised. Let no one’s interpretation of prophecy rob you of the conviction wrought by the Holy Spirit in your own soul.” (Last Day Events, p. 16, 1992). The Bible echoes this with “Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” (James 5:20, KJV) and “Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.” (Proverbs 31:8, KJV). In our interactions with others, we must be living examples of Christ’s character, reflecting His grace and mercy in all that we do. But what sobering reality does the time of trouble present?

TROUBLE’S TRUTH!

The time of trouble is a sobering reality, a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the urgency of preparation. Yet, it is also a time of great hope, for it marks the culmination of God’s plan of redemption. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The sacred scriptures provide evidence of this truth, as seen in the parable of the vine and branches, where separation from the source leads to withering. Sr. White vividly describes this necessity, stating, “Live the life of faith day by day. Do not become anxious and distressed about the time of trouble, and thus have a time of trouble beforehand.” (The Signs of the Times, June 3, 1886). She further emphasizes, “Their hope and faith are strong, because acquired by conflict, and nurtured by suffering. If it were not for these heroes of faith, who have learned to endure, the world would be in a far worse condition than it now is.” (The Signs of the Times, Dec. 9, 1886). “But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.” (Psalm 3:3, KJV). “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.” (Psalm 34:19, KJV). As we reflect on these truths, let us be filled with a sense of awe and reverence for our Creator, who in His infinite love and wisdom, has provided a way of escape for His people. Let us not take this grace for granted, but rather, let us embrace it with all our hearts, and share it with those around us. But what demands our attention in the events leading up to the Second Coming?

COMING CLIMAX!

The events leading up to the Second Coming are not mere stories in a book; they are prophetic realities that demand our attention. The close of probation, the time of Jacob’s trouble, the outpouring of God’s wrath, and the glorious return of Christ—these are not distant events, but rather, they are the climax of human history, the final chapters in the great controversy between good and evil. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The sacred scriptures provide evidence of this truth, as seen in the parable of the vine and branches, where separation from the source leads to withering. Sr. White vividly describes this necessity, stating, “We are nearing the great day of God. The signs are fulfilling. And yet we have no message to tell us of the day and hour of Christ’s appearing.” (Last Day Events, p. 32, 1992). She further emphasizes, “Now, just now, we need to be preparing for the Lord’s second coming.” (Letter 308, 1907). “But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.” (Mark 13:32, KJV). “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” (1 Thessalonians 5:6, KJV). As we stand on the threshold of eternity, let us be found faithful, clinging to the promises of God, and sharing His love with the world. The King is coming soon!

“Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.” (Matthew 24:42, KJV)

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SELF-REFLECTION

How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into these prophetic truths, allowing them to shape my character and priorities?

How can we adapt these complex themes to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from seasoned church members to new seekers or those from different faith traditions, without compromising theological accuracy?

What are the most common misconceptions about these topics in my community, and how can I gently but effectively correct them using Scripture and the writings of Sr. White?

In what practical ways can our local congregations and individual members become more vibrant beacons of truth and hope, living out the reality of Christ’s soon return and God’s ultimate victory over evil?