Just something encouraging this morning as we are inundated with bad news on all sides …

Mark 13:7 And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. ESV

Luke 17:26 Just as it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of Man. ESV

And while we are not surprised, we are still overwhelmed at times and we tend to forget that this is all part of God’s plan.

I have two books in my library that are exemplary works by Dr. Henry M. Morris, one of the founders of the  Creation Research Institute and the author two of my go to references:  The Genesis Record, A scientific and devotional commentary on the book of beginnings and The Revelation Record: A Scientific and Devotional Commentary on the Prophetic Book of the End of Times. Both of these books are excellent resources that address the Foundation of God’s written word (Toledoth – “The Book of the World’s Beginning”) and the Capstone of His Word (Apokalupsis – “The Book of Unveilings of the World’s Future”). They were two resources I used in writing volume four of my Wake Up And Rest – The Bride Sleeps at Her Own Peril series.

I recently once again began reading The Revelation Record and I spent some time reflecting on a familiar chart I want to share with you. As you read through the comparisons in God’s Word regarding the beginning and the ending of His plan it is encouraging … especially today. It is a wonderful reminder that God had a plan from beginning to end and it is not only full of warnings, it is full of hope. Here is how Dr. Morris introduced the chart …

The first chapters of Genesis describe a sinless world, made for man and placed under his dominion. Even though sin and the curse have intruded for a time, God cannot be defeated in His purpose, and all that God intended in the beginning will ultimately be accomplished. The earth must be restored to its original perfection and then continue forever. Sin and the curse must be removed and death will be no more. The first three chapters of Genesis outline the entrance of sin into God’s perfect creation. The last three chapters of Revelation outline the purgation [cleansing] of sin from God’s redeemed creation.

As the chart reveals, God has given us His plan from beginning to end. A plan that will not fail and whose ending is rapidly approaching. It is a plan from Alpha to Omega that is in the hands of the One who is The Alpha and Omega. No matter what it looks like God is in control. We know His plan and He has given us His Holy Spirit to walk us through it. Be encouraged!