This week on Real Talk with Rachael, I'm speaking with Max Lucado. Max is known for combining poetic storytelling and homespun humor with the heart of a pastor. His trade books all begin as sermon series at Oak Hills Church, and his sermons all start with Max asking himself this question: “What can I say on Sunday that will still matter on Monday?” He’s been dubbed “America’s Pastor” by Christianity Today, “The Best Preacher in America” by Reader’s Digest, and the “Ted Lasso of Pastors” by the Dallas Morning News. Max Lucado has penned more than 40 works of adult nonfiction, standing alongside dozens and dozens of bestselling children's books, gift books, Bible studies, commentaries, and collections. His books have been published in 56 languages worldwide and regularly appear on bestseller lists, including The New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today.

Key Points from Our Conversation:

• Biblical teachings are meant to prepare, not scare. Focus on preparation, maintaining faith, and trusting God’s guidance rather than being overwhelmed by fear.
• Rather than fearing the end times or personal endings, view them as beginnings of something greater. This shift in perspective can bring peace and reduce anxiety about aging or the future.
• In moments of fear or uncertainty about the future, trust in God's character and the promise of eternal life by focusing on faith and spiritual growth rather than dwelling on fears.
• The concept of the rapture is meant to be comforting, offering hope and healing. Rather than focusing on fears of being left behind, we should see it as a moment of divine reunion and restoration.
• The rapture is described as the next major event on God's timeline, where believers will be taken up to avoid the chaos of the tribulation. This encourages believers to live in readiness, keeping faith and trust in God's plan.
• The Antichrist will emerge after the rapture, charming people and leading them during a time of chaos. The tribulation is a seven-year period of great suffering following the rapture. During this time, Satan will empower the Antichrist, but there will also be a Jewish revival led by 144,000 evangelists. This calls for believers to be prepared for difficult times while holding onto hope.
• Believers should test the teachings they receive, especially regarding end-times prophecy, to ensure they align with Scripture. If something doesn't feel right or biblical, it's okay to set it aside and trust that God will reveal truth in His timing.
• Upon death, believers enter paradise, a place of healing and peace, which is like the front porch of heaven. This encourages Christians not to fear death but to view it as a transition to eternal rest and joy.
• After the tribulation, Christ will return to reign on earth for a thousand years (the Millennium), followed by a final judgment. Believers will not face this judgment because their sins have been forgiven, reinforcing the importance of faith in Christ.
• H - Hang in there: Life's troubles are temporary compared to the eternal glory ahead. O - Overcome pessimism: Fight cynicism, especially with age, and embrace optimism. P - Pray expectantly: Focus prayers not just on personal needs but with the bold hope for Christ's return and greater things. E - Explore eternity: Keep the perspective that this life is temporary, and greater joy and fulfillment are promised in the next.

Let’s Get Real Practical:

• Get a copy of Max's book What Happens Next, then share and discuss it with someone
• Become familiar with the end times timeline
• What's one thing God spoke to you in this episode? Process it by journaling or talking with a counselor

Resources:

You can find a list of Christian counselors at The American Association of Christian Counselors or through Focus on the Family’s Christian Counselor Network. Join the Joy Mail community for monthly updates and exclusive resources by visiting RachelGilbert.com and clicking the freebies tab. Be sure to leave a review or share the episode on social media by tagging @RachaelJGilbert for your chance to win a copy of What Happens Next

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