"Understanding of the Times"

"And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment." (1 Ch 12:32)

Various commentators see the descriptive words "understanding of the times" to refer primarily to understanding politics and state affairs, while others see that more is intended. Surely they were men who were "wise in counsel" and who could "count the cost" of things, knowing about causes and effects, etc. they were people who knew well the history and beliefs of their own nation. This would of course include knowledge of their laws and religion. Every "ambassador" should be someone who knows the people he represents in foreign lands.

Perhaps our Lord had the above words from Chronicles in his mind when he said - "O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?" (Matt. 16: 3b)

Perhaps the Psalmist also had them in mind when he said - "We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that knoweth how long." (Psalm 74: 9)

Christians ought to be people who have understanding of the times. Wrote Daniel concerning the last days:

"And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end. Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand." (Dan. 12: 9-10 KJV)

Christians know the "times and seasons" for they are wise and know the holy prophetic scriptures.