When Laura Maxwell first read Revelation, she was filled with fear – but a powerful dream years later changed the way she understood the End Times. Here, she explains why growing closer to Jesus, rather than becoming consumed by speculation, is the key to facing the future with courage and hope.
When I first read the Book of Revelation, fear rose. Years later, a beautiful dream – alongside developing a deeper relationship with Jesus and Scripture – reshaped how I see the End Times. More of that dream later.
We hear debates over the rebuilding of the temple, rapture theories and whether President Trump is the Antichrist. Geopolitical analysts estimate probabilities of war, famine, earthquakes and so on are high – it’s likely this generation will walk through such suffering. Jesus commanded we watch those signs – including deception, false prophets and doctrines – so we shouldn’t ignore topics on the Antichrist or Great Tribulation, but not obsess.
Warnings act as God’s mercy, calling us closer. His victory should remain central – hope lies in anchoring our hearts in Christ’s love. As times grow darker, believers can advance with more courage and discernment.
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Many believers worry over deception, compromise, persecution or martyrdom.
Many believers worry over deception, compromise, persecution or martyrdom. The early church endured through deep devotion to Jesus. “There is no fear in love; perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18). Intimacy with Christ remains our wisest preparation.
Scriptural prophecy exists to prepare us. Although Jesus cautioned against speculation – “no one knows the day or hour” – He did say watch the end signs, lifting our eyes to Him, our Bridegroom (Matthew 24). Like the wise virgins keeping oil in their lamps, we stay ready through daily communion with Him. Paul encourages us to stand firm, even during the Great Apostasy and Falling Away from faith, looking to Christ’s return and the end of evil (2 Thessalonians 2:2-17). Nothing can separate us from Christ’s love (Romans 8:38–39).
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Women especially can identify with romance. Falling more in love with Jesus – ‘bridal love’ – is the church’s greatest strength. Last Days’ endurance isn’t about surviving but loving Jesus more than this world, or life itself. Love comforts. It’s the fire that can’t be extinguished (Song of Solomon).
“The one who endures to the end will be saved” (Matthew 24:13). Scripture warns when lawlessness increases, love grows cold and endurance collapses. The early church understood this, rejoicing in suffering, knowing they shared Christ’s suffering. Love transforms pain into worship – hope grows as love thrives. John the Baptist urged, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord.’ Returning to our first love (Revelation 2:4), leaning into His affection and recalling His faithfulness keeps hearts warm. Remember Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and His blood shed for our sins.
Develop such love now, throughout the day, not just devotional times. Focus on and rest in it: ‘He will quieten you with His love’ (Zephaniah 3:17). Daily communion with Jesus strengthens us for whatever lies ahead – nurturing love through obedience, beholding Christ in Scripture, worship and prayer. Worship when afraid, even whispering His precious name!
READ MORE: Let’s put aside idle speculation
The Bible is our instruction and safety manual for navigating life.
The Bible is our instruction and safety manual for navigating life. We shouldn’t just read it, but follow it through. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commands” – similarly, when we follow through, our love grows. It makes obedience joyful, not burdensome, transforming commandments into acts of love for our Bridegroom, as we await His return and the Wedding Feast of the Lamb. His words steady us: “My peace I give you” (John 14:27). These devotional practices don’t distract from the End Times; they keep us Christ-centred – our future is held by the One who loves us with an everlasting love.
Much to my surprise, I had a dream of myself and others being beheaded. I’d forgotten Revelation 20:4, where Christians are beheaded for refusing to worship the Antichrist or accept the Mark of the Beast. I didn’t feel the execution – over in a split second. Immediately, I saw blinding light. I awoke, knowing it was heaven. I longed to tell Christians the world over not to fear!
More geopolitical analysts advise preparing for the possibility of war. Many Christians already living amidst war, like the Church throughout history, still testify God is good. As great darkness covers the earth, we can walk with more courage. Like my dream – when you see persecution coming – rejoice, you’re about to enter God’s glorious kingdom! While love keeps us steadfast, let’s continue our mission – sharing the Good News, even with our persecutors, inviting people to repent and receive Christ as Saviour.
Believers don’t face the future alone but with Jesus, our Bridegroom and Prince of Peace, standing firm in dark times, our hearts belonging to Him. The Tribulation and Antichrist’s evil reign are temporary; Jesus defeats him at Armageddon. Christ’s reign is eternal. Stay focused on His return – endurance developing from intimacy. While cultivating deeper love for Jesus now, fear loses its grip and hope rises, our hearts learning to look towards His coming with joy.
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