“The children of Issachar…had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do…” (1 Chron. 12:32 NKJ).
A person who reads his Bible consistently is soon attuned to world conditions. After you have read Jesus’ description of the last days (Matt. 24-25), it does not surprise you to hear news reports of worldwide violence, global turmoil, or climatic disturbances.
Students of the Word of God know that these things have been predicted. When they come to pass, inwardly we know that all this is a fulfillment of Bible prophecy.
The tribe of Issachar had the unusual ability to understand their times. They were cognizant of what was going on. They could relate to their contemporary world. They understood the past, the present, and the future. As last-day believers, we can have the same mindset, the same abilities, and the same understanding of our times.
In the Septuagint Greek Old Testament (LXX), the word translated times is kairos (kahee-ros’) meaning “opportunities.” The children of “Issachar” were aware of their chances, their opportunities.
The Christian Church has great opportunities right now. Global evangelism, missionary thrust, and international soul-winning are readily available to all believers. I want to be an “Issachar” who fully understands his opportunities for the Lord.
These people knew what Israel ought to do. It is one thing to wake up and know it is 6 a.m. It is another thing to arise, get dressed, and go to work. Knowing your opportunities sets the stage for action. Action is a result of knowing what you are to do!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.