1 John 2:
15 Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

In times of economic struggle or natural disaster, it is easier to examine one's priorities. We live in a time where both economic and natural disaster surround us. Could this be God's way of telling us to get our priorities in order before it is too late? The world, including Hollywood, seem to be abuzz with end-times thinking ( I was just watching the movie "Knowing", with Nicolas Cage, last night). There are many discussion groups and fellow Christians online, all talking about how we are possibly the last generation on earth, or how Obama is likely the last US Administration before Christ's coming. We don't know, of course, if we are in fact the last generation, but the signs of the end of this age are definitely evident. Israel is back in the Holy Land and is flourishing - the fig tree is greening.

In the unique time we live in, we need to remember that even though we may be experiencing difficult circumstances, all these things will pale in comparison to the glory of Christ's coming. Think about your difficulties, whatever they are, from this perspective. When Christ comes back - the race is over, this age is over forever , and will only be a distant memory.

Hebrews 10:
²⁵not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.