Prayer Prepares for Tribulation

Mark 13:18-20 “Pray that this will not take place in winter, 19 because those will be days of distress unequaled from the beginning, when God created the world, until now – and never to be equaled again. 20 If the LORD had not cut short those days, no one would survive. But for the sake of the elect, whom he has chosen, he has shortened them.”
 
JESUS continued to warn the disciples of Jerusalem’s impending destruction. The Bible tells us of many horrific wars that destroyed cities and killed its inhabitants. This is one of sin’s supremely tragic effects on the human race. God had established Jerusalem on a mountain. It was a strong fortress, very difficult to conquer. Only with God’s permission could an enemy destroy his city as did Babylon in 586 BC. Only in God’s will did Rome destroy Jerusalem in 70 AD.
    Jesus wants his disciples – the new church – to be ready for Jerusalem’s tribulation, the “days of distress unequaled from the beginning, when God created the world, until now – and never to be equaled again.” Nothing can hold back God’s almighty power.
    How bad was this event? There is a secular historian named Josephus, who is highly regarded in his accuracy of history during the first century AD. He even gives evidence of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. Josephus wrote, “The destruction of the temple was a catastrophe of supernatural dimensions, with armies appearing in the sky and a supernatural voice. The suffering was unparalleled.” (from The Reformation Study Bible)  
    In the midst of the suffering, God “cut short those days… for the sake of the elect.” Jesus had warned the disciples to flee, and they did so. Many of the church in 69-70 AD established a new settlement east of Jerusalem. Rome left them alone. They persevered through the war and preserved the gospel.
    Within this prophecy of great tribulation in Jerusalem and Judea, Jesus also taught prayer is effective to influence God’s will. As Jesus urged his followers, “Pray that this will not happen in winter.” he teaches us to pursue God’s personal intervention into his decreed purpose. Even as we know the enemy is approaching, we can faithfully pray, “Protect us. Save us!” The Savior promised special help in times of need.
    Yes, when the storm has ravaged your home, the disease has weakened your body, or the family is split in disagreement, you can confidently seek God’s will to help you through the trials. You can pray God will cut short those days to guide you to his place of refuge and help.
    As we continue, Jesus will point his disciples from Jerusalem’s destruction to God’s final judgment on the world. We all know the world is groaning under sin, awaiting that day. Let’s pray for his assistance to help us prepare and be sustained through those times.