How should Christians respond to these unprecedented times?
Prayerfully.
Consider 2 Chronicles 7:14: “Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.”
Are we confident that the Lord is sovereign and in full control of things?
The writer of Proverbs made clear that while our actions have consequences, it’s God who has the final say: “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord” (Proverbs 16:33).
Trusting in the Lord isn’t pollyannish or passive. It’s actually a mark of a strong faith, believing that our focus must be both earthly and eternally minded.
I can be extremely concerned with current circumstances – even burdened. But we’re called to act – and trust.
It was the late Dr. James Boice, beloved pastor of the Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, who once observed, “It is impossible to exaggerate the importance of God’s sovereignty. The other attributes of God are equally important … It is the Christian’s strength and comfort.”
The scenes from yesterday were disturbing. But why do the Scriptures repeatedly urge readers to “Fear not”?
Because fear is a natural human emotion in a broken world. But we can stand up to it. “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” (Proverbs 29:25)
Never forget: Jesus is either Lord of all – or not Lord at all.
What is the way forward?
When you don’t know what to say – pray.
When you don’t know what to think – pray.
When you don’t know what to do – pray.
The Lord will always listen. He will always help. He is a shelter for all who call upon Him.
Photo from Jerry Habraken-USA TODAY/REUTERS
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Anne Hamlin says
-Your encouragement and direction through scripture has been a refreshment for my soul. Thank you for your faithfulness to Him who calls us to Himself.
Joe Sanders says
-Good Word. Can this be quoted on FaceBook?
Darlene Archer says
-How do I join?
LR says
-I’m curious why pastors continue to refer to the Capitol event as especially disturbing (which it was) without devoting any ink to the horrendous rioting, looting, burning and pillaging that preceded it for months. Maybe if enough pastors had shown outrage over those ‘peaceful protests’ the Capitol event would have never happened.
Elaine says
-Thank you for your message concerning fear and prayer and specific scripture. I needed to hear that.
Tammy B. says
-Me too.
Angela says
-Well said! Thank you for sharing your thoughts as well as the scriptures. They were very comforting.
Tammy B. says
-Yes, They are comforting.