One does not need prophetic gifts to recognize that the chaos and storms of 2020 will continue for the foreseeable future. The 2020s will likely be the most chaotic time most of us (at least in America) will experience in our lifetime.
Translating this into “kingdom-speak”: This decade will be the most opportunistic and pivotal time the God-assigned ambassadors to the United States of America have seen in almost 100 years.
There is no better time to be a disciple maker than in the midst of chaos and storms. If our houses remain standing, many who have lost theirs will be coming to us for refuge, encouragement, and understanding.
With this great opportunity in mind, I dare say we all could use a bit of inspection and restoration. Therefore, as we close out this incredibly chaotic year, I offer you three considerations:
Perspective: We are seated with Christ in heavenly places, with access to Heaven’s perspective (Ephesians 2:6). God offers His peace and purpose in the chaos and storms.
Furthermore, strong houses are built from an eternal perspective; they are built to last, not to survive for a year or two. Patchwork and paint-overs won’t cut it. We must secure and strengthen our house through the spiritual disciplines God has provided.
Position: God providentially positions us geographically, relationally, and with particular responsibilities. Consideration for the impact zone of these dimensions is critical. Our influence will be greatest (for God’s glory) with people in our closest spheres.
We must avoid and reject the temptation to give unbalanced attention to people and situations on our periphery (e.g., political wrangling in Washington, D.C. and riots on the other side of the country).
Privilege: We are ambassadors of a kingdom far greater than the United States of America (2Corinthians 5:20). This will be controversial, but it seems to me that we must choose between remaining a citizen of America or becoming God’s ambassador to it. God does not entertain split allegiances.
Furthermore, God has made us vessels, instruments, and weapons of righteousness (Romans 6:13; 2Timothy 2:21). We are stewards of the mysteries of God, required to be found faithful (1Corinthians 4:1-2). These are privileges, not burdens. They represent opportunities to experience the glory of God in the good work He has created for us to walk in (Ephesians 2:10; Matthew 5:16).
Developing and maintaining the proper perspective on our position and privilege as Kingdom citizens and ambassadors in this world will sustain and empower us through the chaos and storms of the 2020s. God will use us to encourage, edify, and equip others for the same.
In closing, let me remind you that the Sermon on the Mount contains the keys to a strong house.
Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. Matthew 7:24-25
As you study the Sermon (it only takes fifteen minutes to read through the Matthew account), recognize that it does not contain a set of Christian requirements, but instead describes the person into whom the Godhead has committed to transform, by grace through faith.
Commit your way to the Lord,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5
God bless you with a very merry Christmas, and His perspective and purpose for the New Year.
Updates and Prayer Requests
We are so very grateful to God for your prayers and support this year. We trust He will continue to guide you on our behalf. What would God have you pray and do to advance His kingdom with us? Here are some suggestions:
A new book is in the works. The Storms Have Come aims to help Christians inspect and restore their houses, and navigate the chaos of the 2020s while helping others do the same. I interviewed with a new publisher yesterday, and the prospects are exciting. Please pray for clarity and swift completion, and how God might have you invest in this project (we need approximately $5,000).
God has sustained 2:2 Collective through a challenging year, and we anticipate several breakthroughs in 2021. Please continue to pray for God’s guidance and wisdom; that He would connect us with those who have a heart for unity – to advance the kingdom together. Pray for continued wisdom and courage in my roles as President and Treasurer.
My heart continues to ache for our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world. Please pray with me for their encouragement, protection, and faithfulness in the face of severe trial and tribulation.
Continue to pray for the workplace leaders you know – for their transformation into mighty men and women of God; that they would boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. Let me know how I can help you minister to them.
I strongly encourage you to ensure your prayers are foremost for the glory of God; and that you first worship Him. He is the Giver of all good things. He deserves our focused attention. He loves talking with His children.
Partnering with inLight Consulting
God’s purpose for inLight Consulting is beyond human capability. We are desperately dependent on Him; and would have it no other way. We are grateful for the continued support of those that trust God to use this ministry to further His kingdom. Please pray for our vision and mission.
Share the truths you find here with the leaders in your life; it will make them free.
God bless you with wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him; and may He give you the grace and courage to walk in the work He has prepared for you.
Humbly yours and forever His,
Rob