on
dailtext
- Get link
- X
- Other Apps
“What those who plunder us will receive” (10 mins.)
We live in increasingly difficult times. Worldly pressures are mounting, divisions are becoming more apparent, and as Jehovah’s servants, we feel more strongly that we do not belong in this system. Even so, the Bible not only helps us understand what is happening, but it also assures us that Jehovah is in control and that he will soon act in behalf of his people.
Today we will examine what those who plunder and oppress God's servants receive, and why we can remain calm and confident. To do this, we will consider three main ideas.
The Bible compares mankind to a turbulent sea (Is 17:12; w18.06 7 par. 16).
God’s Word uses very clear illustrations to describe the condition of the world today. In Isaiah 57:20, 21 we are told that “the wicked are like the troubled sea that cannot be calmed.” This comparison is very fitting. The troubled sea is never calm; it always produces noise, confusion, and danger.
LET'S READ ISAIAH 17:12
“Listen! Many peoples are in turmoil! They are as agitated as the seas. The nations are in uproar! They sound like the roar of mighty waters.”
This text describes the nations as multitudes roaring like turbulent waters. And in Revelation 13:1, a political system is presented that emerges from that symbolic sea—that is, from a restless, divided, and peaceless humanity.
Today we clearly see these words fulfilled. Political issues divide families, communities, and entire nations. People allow ideologies, self-interest, and ambition to fuel confrontation, hatred, and senseless violence. The world promises solutions, but only produces more confusion.
In contrast, Jehovah has formed a peaceful and united people. Regardless of our nationality, language, or culture, we serve the same God together. This unity is not superficial; it is the result of applying Bible principles in our daily lives. No wonder Zephaniah 3:17 says that Jehovah rejoices when he sees his people. He clearly sees the contrast between the turbulent sea of this world and the spiritual tranquility of those who serve him.
We know that because of our neutrality this world will not treat us well (John 15:18, 19; w16.04 28 par. 4).
Although in some places the political situation may seem stable and there may be a degree of religious tolerance, the Bible warns us that this will not last. The end of Satan's world is very near, and Christian neutrality will be increasingly tested.
LET'S READ JOHN 15:18, 19
“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.”
Second Timothy 3:3, 4 describes the people of the last days as stubborn, disloyal, and “unwilling to compromise.” This explains why the world is becoming increasingly polarized. When someone chooses not to take sides, as we do, they become misunderstood, criticized, and, in many cases, attacked.
In several countries, our brothers and sisters have already experienced sudden political changes. Overnight, what seemed normal became dangerous. Some had to defend their neutrality before authorities, employers, or even family members.
That is why it is vital to prepare now. If we wait until a difficult situation arises to decide what to do, we risk giving in under pressure. Preparing involves strengthening our relationship with Jehovah, studying his Word, and becoming fully convinced that neutrality is not an option, but an expression of loyalty to his Kingdom.
The world may see us as weak or as easy prey, but Jehovah sees something very different: he sees faithful servants who trust in him even when they are deprived of rights, respect, or peace of mind.
Soon Jehovah will deliver us from “those who plunder us” (Is 17:13, 14; ip-1 198 par. 20).
So, what will be the ultimate outcome of all this opposition? The following texts provide a powerful answer:
LET'S READ ISAIAH 17:13, 14
“The nations will roar like the roar of many waters. He will rebuke them, and they will flee far away, chased like chaff on the mountains before the wind, like dry thistles before a whirlwind. 14 Terror comes at dusk. Before morning they are no more. This is what will befall those who plunder us, and this is what will befall those who loot us.”
These words assure us that oppression will not last. Although some today treat Jehovah’s servants harshly, disrespectfully, or unjustly, their time is limited. Jehovah has set a time when he will intervene.
Many opponents consider God's servants an easy target because we are not part of the mainstream religions or the political system. However, what they fail to see is that Jehovah is observing every act of injustice and that nothing goes unanswered.
Second Thessalonians 1:6-9 confirms that Jehovah is just and will give relief to those who are oppressed. And 1 Peter 5:6-11 encourages us to remain humble and steadfast, because Jehovah will exalt us in due time.
The Bible speaks of “the morning” as the end of our tribulations. That morning is drawing ever closer. For those who plunder, loot, and oppress, the end of their apparent power will suddenly arrive. But for God’s people, it will be the beginning of ultimate liberation.
Illustration
The image shows a brother in a cell, perhaps for sharing the good news. This reminds us that our loyalty to God is paramount. Despite difficulties and persecution, we must remain loyal to God and proclaim his message of love and salvation.
This brother's faith is an example to us and inspires us to persevere in our own struggle for faith.
Conclusion
So what will those who plunder us receive? Not the victory they expect, nor the permanent control they imagine. They will receive exactly what Jehovah has determined: the end of their influence and their opposition.
Meanwhile, we remain steadfast, neutral, and united. We do not allow the turbulent sea of this world to sweep us away. We trust in Jehovah, strengthen our faith, and patiently await the coming “morning.”
May these truths help us to remain calm, to not be afraid, and to always remember that Jehovah is on our side. He sees, he hears, and very soon he will act.
Comments
Post a Comment