This verse covers life during times of great stress, pressure, and turmoil. It is not speaking of a time of unparalleled peace, prosperity, and plenty. It is a promise that shows us how to survive in a climate of international tension, economic upheaval, and spiritual change.
This word from the Lord tells us that persecution of the Christians will result in greater knowledge ("they shall know their God"), greater strength ("they shall be strong"), and greater miracles ("they shall carry out great exploits").
The more difficult the days, the greater God's power will be demonstrated. You and I should be encouraged knowing that the Lord is fortifying us for the future. We are not only going to survive, we have been promised that miracles will accompany our Christian witness.
In times of great opposition to the Church of the living God, the world becomes a combat zone between God and Satan. Where sin abounds, grace abounds even more (Rom. 5:20). The greater the darkness, the greater the light. Right in the midst of the devil's revival of occultism and mystic religions, the Holy Ghost is being poured out in copious measure.
The Church of Jesus Christ is not getting weaker and weaker as the end of time approaches; it is getting stronger and stronger. We believers are going out in a blaze of glory. We will know the Lord intimately, have a prevailing strength, and do notable feats and miracles in His name! Our future prospect is victory all the way!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
