Ephesians 1:11, 13-14 – “In Him we also have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things in accordance with the plan of His will…13 after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of the promise, 14 who is a first installment of our inheritance...”
Every day that we turn on the news or connect to our social media we have more reason to lose heart or grow angry. I have recently heard a lot of people speak of feeling numb. It is important to realize that anger, if not dealt with properly, is the strongest emotion that will eventually swallow up all the other emotions. There is only so much of the constant bickering, tragedy, fear mongering, virtue signaling, etc. that one can take. I believe, behind the scenes in the spirit realm, is a warfare of tribalism. Principalities and powers are at work to divide people while the Holy Spirit is always working towards uniting people. The root problem is the difference in world view between all of mankind being created equal with God given rights, versus all of mankind having evolved differently with a mindset of survival of the fittest. One sees value in all people, one requires conformity of all people and is quickly able to dehumanize.
It is important to remember that Christians throughout history have always faced volatile environments. The Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Christ that raised Him from the dead, has been deposited into those who receive Christ to remind us of what is to come. The Lord Jesus Christ is going to set everything right. A day has been appointed when all the secret things will be brought into the light and a righteous judgment will be had. As Christians, we must remember on a daily basis that we are not citizens here, but rather citizens of heaven, so as to not lose heart. This time is temporary, the kingdom of heaven coming to earth in its fullness is eternal. If you’ve been sealed in the Spirit, ask the Holy Spirit to guard your heart and mind in Christ so that you may retain your joy and your witness in order for others to see heaven on earth in you as a sneak preview of things to come.