An unfamiliar path is approaching – a path we have not walked upon in this generation. The Lord has prepared His Church with an abundance of encouraging words to strengthen us for what is to come. The season of encouragement is expanding to include warnings needed to walk wisely through the approaching time of trouble.

Many will want to hear a continuance of only words of encouragement. They will put fingers of disapproval in their ears to deafen the sound of the warnings. They will surround themselves with messages that will not be strong enough to support them when they need it most. There are seasons when our preaching needs to be therapeutic but there are times when it must include warnings. To park on either extreme is not the full measure of the truth.

Isaiah prophesied a word in his time that is applicable to some in our time who fail to warn and prepare their listeners for what is coming “For the leaders of my people – the Lord’s watchmen, his shepherds – are blind and ignorant. They are like silent watchdogs that give no warning when danger comes” (Isaiah 56:10).

We live in a moment of history like it was when Joshua stood before the people of Israel preparing them to cross the Jordan.  His instruction was to follow the Ark, the presence of God. The reasoning for his instruction was “…you have never been this way before” (Joshua 3:4). The presence of God is our only sure compass in times of significant transition. Only by following the presence can we be assured of safe passage. The people were also told, “Today you will know that the living God is among you” (3:10). 

Because we have not traveled this way before the display of God’s power, provision, and comfort will increase supernaturally for those who take the Spirit-led warnings to heart. God’s presence revealed in His people will offer the world a powerful testimony of His faithfulness when nations wage war, economies collapse, and the love of fellow believers grows cold in fear.