Living in the tension

What a time in earth’s history to be alive! As I reflected on Daniel 12:1, “a time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation” (KJV), I realized how relevant those words feel in 2025. Yet I imagine those who lived through World War I, World War II, chattel slavery, Jim Crow in the United States, or apartheid in South Africa may have felt the same. Still, here we are—Jesus has not yet returned—and at times it feels as though evil has the upper hand.

How the story ends

But Bible-believing Christians know how the story ends. Only Jesus can make wrong things right—and in His time, He will (though my heart longs for it now). No earthly leaders, no matter how great, can fix the brokenness of this world. Any relief they bring is only temporary, for destruction is the natural consequence of a sinful world.

Ellen G. White wrote, “We are standing on the threshold of great and solemn events. Prophecies are fulfilling. Strange and eventful history is being recorded in the books of heaven—events which it was declared should shortly precede the great day of God.”¹ Her words remind us that while the world shakes, God’s purposes remain steady.

Tips to help hold on

So how do we live within this tension—between what is and what will be?

1. Fix your eyes on Jesus. Do not let the noise of these times distract you from what matters most—the salvation of your soul and the souls of others.
2. Pray earnestly for the Holy Spirit. The Spirit will guide you in every moment—what to say, what to do, and when to remain silent.
3. Avoid assumptions and generalities. Have courageous, honest conversations to dispel confusion and foster understanding.
4. Examine your words and actions. Are you an agent of peace or division? Remember, it is possible to disagree and still be peaceable.
5. Reflect deeply on your allegiance. Who or what do you truly represent?
6. Stand firm in conviction. Be willing even to die for what you believe.
7. Pray continually. Ask God for wisdom, strength, and discernment, and trust His promise to give them generously.

Leading in the tension

There is so much more happening than meets the eye. These are spiritually charged times, and the weapons of our warfare must be spiritual, not earthly.

Living in the tension—and leading in the tension—are not easy. But with wisdom from above, we can endure faithfully. As Oswald Chambers reminds us, “Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One Who is leading.”²

My prayer is that God will keep us steadfast, discerning, and courageous as we navigate these times until that glorious day when tension gives way to triumph and faith becomes sight.