Session 14

We don’t have to fear the end of the world

From Daniel: A 14-Day Devotional

The Bible is not silent about the end times — that is, what will unfold on the earth shortly preceding Jesus’ return to the earth. Daniel is among the prophets who record visions of what will happen when Jesus returns.  

Whether we’re reading the prophecies in Daniel, Matthew 25, or Revelation, the sense of chaos is dispelled by a simple, repeated truth: God is in control and our ultimate victory through Jesus is assured. 

Though we know how the story ends,  like Daniel, we are left with more questions than answers (Daniel 12:8). The curtain is pulled back but not completely. There remains a thin veil that obscures the details. 

What is the tribulation? How does it affect Christians? How can we maintain our peace of mind in the midst of so many unknowns?

The angel’s assurance to Daniel is our assurance as well. 

“‘Go on about your business, Daniel,’ he said. ‘The message is confidential and under lock and key until the end, until things are about to be wrapped up. The populace will be washed clean and made like new. But the wicked will just keep on being wicked, without a clue about what is happening. Those who live wisely and well will understand what’s going on’” (Daniel 12:9-10, MSG). 

The promise in Daniel’s prophecy, and so many others, is that those of us who know Jesus will endure no matter what. We can live each day without fear because we were washed clean and made new the moment we asked Jesus into our lives. 

We won’t understand everything about the end times, and that’s OK. We take comfort, not from having all the details, but from knowing that eternal life began when we started a relationship with Jesus (John 3:16 and John 17:3). We are His, and we will be with Him in the end. 

Reflect:

• Now is the time to assess your relationship with Jesus. Do you know of Jesus or do you belong to Jesus? If you have any doubts or questions, we’d love to answer them. 
• Do you feel anxiety about the end times? Talk to the Lord about your fears and allow Him to comfort your heart.