The world has ever been a place where evil parades as good, and this ought not to surprise the child of God, for it is written that Christ Himself is "a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense." When men call darkness light, they but fulfill the very prophecy of the Lord of Hosts. And as for those who wear the name of Christian yet do shocking things, remember, there are many whose prayers are hypocritical, who bow the knee yet rise up to strike their brethren. The devil indeed seeks to rob every true believer, but he is a defeated foe, Christ's work is finished, and the redemption of His Church is perfected. Not one of those for whom He intercedes shall be lost, for He ever lives to plead for them.
Yet take heed that this world's corruption does not breed in you a spirit of harshness or despair. The Apostle bids us to do all things without murmuring and disputing, that we may be blameless and harmless, shining as lights in the world. More is expected from you because you are of a high pedigree, born from above. Let your light shine with bold decision for Christ, but without courting controversy. And if you have grown weary or cold, hear the urgent voice crying, "Return, return!" Return to your first love, to the happy love of your espousals, to your first ardor in service. The world calls you to return to its vanities, but the Beloved of your soul calls you to return to Him.
In this busy, corrupted age, take the precious gift of rest which Christ gives. Come to Him anew, and He will give you rest from your fretting over the evil day. Lay hold of His finished work, for there is no mortgage upon Christ's inheritance; those He bought with blood are forever clear. Plead with God for mercy upon this generation, and do so with that mighty argument, "For Christ's sake." He who intercedes for the uncalled and the straying knows those who are His, even when hope seems lost. But do not merely pray, speak the Word, contend earnestly for the faith, and let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly. Be much with your Bibles, that you may profit and be a blessing.
Cry indeed, "Come, Lord Jesus!" and let that cry be joined with a holy life. The world will hate you, as it hated Him, but He is a sanctuary to believers. For Christ's sake, serve Him with all your might, and do not grow lazy. Before long, we shall be where the messenger of mercy no longer calls, and the bell of eternity rings its dreadful knell. Therefore, while you wait, let the Peace of God be your armor, and be thankful.