Signs of the Times: Seeing God's Plan in Today's World

Welcome home, friend. If you've been scrolling through the news lately, watching world events unfold, and wondering, "What does all of this mean?", you're not alone. Maybe you've caught yourself thinking about Bible prophecy or feeling a little uneasy about where everything is headed. Here's something beautiful: God isn't surprised by any of it, and He's given us a roadmap to understand the times we're living in.

At Boundless Online Church and FA Memphis, we believe that understanding the signs of the times isn't about fear, it's about hope. It's about recognizing that God has a plan, and we get to be part of it. So grab your coffee, settle in, and let's explore what Scripture teaches us about seeing God's hand at work in today's world.

What Are the "Signs of the Times"?

When Jesus' disciples asked Him about the end of the age, He didn't leave them guessing. In Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21, Jesus laid out specific markers, events and conditions that would signal the approach of His return. As believers in the Assemblies of God tradition, we hold firmly to the truth that Jesus is coming back, and the signs He described are worth paying attention to.

But here's the thing: these signs aren't meant to scare us. They're meant to prepare us and keep us watchful. Think of them like mile markers on a highway, they tell you you're headed in the right direction and help you know what's coming next.

Recognizing the Signs Around Us

So what should we be looking for? Jesus mentioned several categories of signs:

Natural and Global Events Wars, rumors of wars, earthquakes, famines, and pestilences. Sound familiar? We've seen plenty of these in recent years. While these things have always existed, Jesus said they would increase in frequency and intensity, like birth pains getting closer together.

Spiritual Confusion False teachers, deception, and people claiming to speak for God but leading others astray. In our digital age, it's easier than ever for misinformation to spread. That's why staying grounded in Scripture and connected to a solid faith community matters more than ever.

The Gospel Going Global Here's an exciting one: Jesus said the gospel would be preached to all nations before the end comes (Matthew 24:14). Thanks to technology, podcasts, livestreams, apps, and online churches like ours, the good news is reaching corners of the world that seemed impossible to reach just a generation ago. You're part of that, friend!

Israel and the Nations The Assemblies of God has always recognized the prophetic significance of Israel. Watching how nations relate to Israel and events in the Middle East often provides insight into biblical prophecy unfolding.

Personal Signs: God's Plan for Your Life

While we watch for global signs, let's not forget that God is also working out His plan in your personal life. Sometimes we get so focused on the big picture that we miss what He's doing right where we are.

God communicates His direction through multiple channels in our everyday lives:

Steps – Those moments of clear guidance when you just know what to do next.

Seasons – Periods of growth, change, or transition that shape who you're becoming.

Speed Bumps and Stop Signs – Times when progress slows down, and you realize God is redirecting you toward His perfect timing.

Setups – Circumstances that seem random but align perfectly with God's purpose for you.

Stillness – Quiet moments where you can listen and discern His voice.

Here's something that might surprise you: setbacks and challenges often signal that God is actively at work. When you encounter failures, fiery trials, or seasons of dissatisfaction, these experiences frequently mark moments where God is deepening your faith and refining your character. As 1 Corinthians 10:13 reminds us, God is faithful, He won't let you face more than you can handle, and He always provides a way through.

Discerning God's Direction

Okay, so how do we actually discern what God is doing, both in the world and in our own lives? It's not as complicated as it might seem, but it does require intentionality.

Stay in the Word – Regular Bible study keeps you grounded and helps you recognize truth from deception. When you know what Scripture says, you're less likely to be swayed by every headline or hot take.

Pray Consistently – Prayer isn't just talking at God; it's listening too. Create space for stillness where you can hear His voice.

Obey in the Small Things – Faithfulness in little matters prepares you for bigger assignments. Don't despise small beginnings!

Surround Yourself with Wise Community – You weren't meant to figure this out alone. Trustworthy friends, mentors, and a church family can offer spiritual guidance and confirmation when you're seeking direction.

At Boundless Online Church, we've created spaces specifically for this kind of community. Whether you're joining our Bible Study for Everyone group or connecting through our Prayer Connection, you'll find people walking alongside you.

Living with Hope, Not Fear

Let me be real with you for a moment. It's easy to look at the state of the world and feel anxious. But that's not what God wants for you. The signs of the times should fill us with anticipation, not dread.

Why? Because we know how the story ends. Jesus wins. And if you've placed your faith in Him, you're on the winning team.

The Assemblies of God teaches that Christ's return is imminent, meaning it could happen at any moment. This belief isn't meant to make us panic; it's meant to keep us focused on what matters most: loving God, loving people, and sharing the hope we have with everyone we can.

When God's people humble themselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from their wicked ways, Scripture promises that God responds by hearing, forgiving, and healing (2 Chronicles 7:14). Revival isn't something we manufacture: it's something God does. But we can prepare the ground through prayer and faithfulness.

You're Part of the Story

Friend, you're living in a significant moment in history. The same God who spoke the universe into existence is still at work today: in the headlines, in your neighborhood, and in your heart. He sees you. He knows you. And He has a purpose for your life that fits into His greater plan.

Whether you're exploring faith for the first time or you've been walking with Jesus for decades, we'd love to connect with you. At Boundless Online Church, we believe that church should be accessible to everyone, everywhere. No matter where you are in the world or what time of day it is, you have a place here.

---

Ready to Connect?

We're here for you: 24/7, 365 days a year.

📱 Boundless Online Church AI 24/7 Assistant: 1-901-668-5380 📞 Boundless Phone: 1-901-213-7341 📞 FA Memphis: 1-901-843-8600 ✉️ Email:lmcdonald@famemphis.net 🌐 Online:www.boundlessonlinechurch.org | www.famemphis.org

Written by Dr. Layne McDonald, Online and Connection Pastor at FA Memphis and Boundless Online Church