1 Chronicles 12:32
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. 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.
Understanding the times means discerning what God's people ought to do. Representative men today, including those assembled at the General Conference, need this understanding of the times in which they live. That understanding is a fuller grasp of God's purpose and broadened views of the importance and scope of the message proclaimed to the world, bringing greater effectiveness in saving souls.
It means waking up to present opportunities and the urgent work of proclaiming the last message of mercy to a dying world. It is to be sought by praying most earnestly for understanding of the times. It is gained by being endowed from day to day with a rich measure of the Holy Spirit and by waiting before the Lord with humility of heart, for the Lord is willing to reveal wondrous things out of His law. With it come a spirit of hopefulness and courage, love taking possession of mind and heart, and an uplifting testimony that turns from the dark and discouraging to behold Jesus.