Learning to Read the Times By Bishop Whitter

SPRING 2026 ISSUE | 6 minute read

Learning to Read the Times

What a strange time to be alive. Perhaps more than any other season we have known, 2026 is proving to be unusual—at times even bizarre. We are witnessing things we have never seen before. Daily headlines report events that once belonged only to the imagination of science fiction writers. What are we to make of such extraordinary times? What is the significance of these unprecedented phenomena?

One thing is certain: eternal truths are hidden in today’s headlines.

I believe the Lord is calling us to read the times. This is not as simple as reading a book or scanning a menu. Reading the times requires more than eyesight and intellect; it demands spiritual perception. To discern the times and seasons, we must engage our spiritual senses alongside our physical ones. If we fail to do so, we risk misunderstanding what is truly happening around us.

To rightly understand the events of our day, we must exercise spiritual sensitivity, discernment, holy perception, and wisdom. Seeing beyond surface-level appearances and grasping the deeper spiritual reality of society is essential for anyone concerned about the spiritual well-being of others. Jesus Himself rebuked the religious leaders, saying, “You do not know how to interpret the signs of the times”(Matthew 16:3). Clearly, reading the times and seasons is not optional—it is a responsibility for today’s Christian.

Discerning the eternal truths hidden in current events is part of our spiritual calling. Here are three essential ways to read the times and seasons:

Read Objectively.

When we encounter shocking or troubling news, we must resist the urge to rush to conclusions. Instead, we should process information through the lens of the spiritual realm. There is always more beneath the surface—hidden motives, unseen forces, and details we may never fully know. But God knows them all. Those who jump to judgment often find themselves backtracking. Read slowly. Stay open. Ask what Scripture reveals about such situations. Reading objectively protects us from misinterpretation—and what is happening in our world is far too important to be misread.

Read Maturely.

Spiritual maturity is rooted in a deep knowledge of God’s Word. When we interpret the world through Scripture, panic loses its grip. Those who know God understand that the future rests securely in His hands. When horrific events unfold, we are called to demonstrate the peace that surpasses all understanding. Rather than reacting out of fear, let us stand strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.

Read Redemptively.

Every crisis presents an opportunity for God and His Church to bring redemption. No matter how dark the moment or how depraved the behavior, God desires to work through it. When disaster, moral collapse, or unthinkable evil comes into view, look for how God might redeem the situation. The darkest hour may yet become the Church’s finest hour.

When we learn to read the times objectively, maturely, and redemptively, we will not be shaken. If we rely only on our physical senses and emotions, fear will dominate, and panic will follow. But we are not without hope—we have the blessed hope of the Church (Titus 2:13). These events are not meaningless; they are signs pointing to the return of Jesus Christ. Jesus told us, “When you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near” (Luke 21:31).

The Apostle Paul reinforces this truth: “But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night” (1 Thessalonians 5:1–2). Those who lack this understanding will inevitably misinterpret today’s events, viewing them only through human reasoning and emotion. But we know what the times and seasons signify—Jesus is coming soon for His Church.

Above all, we must remember this: God is in full control. Nothing escapes His watchful eye. The world may appear chaotic, but it is not out of control. He has a perfect plan, even in moments that feel overwhelming.

God’s children can rest securely in this truth: no matter the upheaval around us, you belong to Him—and He will take care of you.

Bishop Rick Whitter
State Administrative Bishop
Virginia Church of God State Office