Is it normal to take a step back in fear about end-time crises?

Questions & Answers August 20, 2016

Q: Is it OK to fear that this spiritual warfare will reach new heights as I progress in faith and that it will greatly affect my family and loved ones if I decide to take up the cross and start spreading the three angels’ messages? I have this deep sense of doom looming above me. Thus, I take a step back in fear. Is that normal? — Losalini, Fiji

A: Unfortunately, fear is a normal part of this world. But we have this wonderful assurance from Jesus Himself: “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:13).

The key is to keep your eyes on Jesus, claim His promises as your own, and trust Him completely because He is trustworthy. We don’t need to borrow trouble of what tomorrow might bring. Jesus tells us: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things [our needs] shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matt. 6:33,34).

Jesus doesn’t want you to suffer with a “deep sense of doom.” He longs to take that burden from you. He invites you right now to come to Him: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

I strongly encourage you to read the chapters “The Invitation” and “Peace, Be Still” in that marvelous book on the life of Christ, “The Desire of Ages.” You may download the entire book free as an eBook, MP3 file, or PDF at: https://bit.ly/DesireofAges