MY HOPE IS IN YOU LORD
In a week of national horror the headlines are discouraging to say the least. Mass murder, rape, and politics can make a person feel hopeless in the face of so much evil. I admit to feeling fear and sadness as the national events unfold around me. But I choose to place my hope in Jesus and the promises of His word. Scripture tells me:
1. God has overcome the world.
John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!" It goes on to say in 1 John 4:4. “You, little children, are from God and have overcome them, because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” An important reminder that the God I serve is more powerful than the evil I fear.
2. God offers us peace.
In John 14:27 Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.” God promises a supernatural peace that can only be found through a personal relationship with Him. Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” When I do not understand the evil around me I can rest in the knowledge that God is in control.
3. God speaks to us through His Word.
1 John 2:14 says, “I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who is from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.” Let’s pause on this verse for a minute and see the sequence – you are strong – (because) the word of God abides in you – (therefore) you have overcome the evil one. Knowing and studying God’s word is an essential part of being strong in the face of evil.
4. God has prepared us for this battle.
Ephesians 6:12-13 says, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” Ephesians 6 goes on to describe the various pieces of the armor of God that we all need. Take time to study God’s Word and put your full armor on each day.
5. God wins in the end.
Revelation 20:10 says, “And the devil who deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are also; and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” And to this we simply have to say AMEN!
Precious Father - We are deeply saddened by the tragedies around us. Please be with the victims who have personally experienced the results of evil and for the survivors and loved ones who mourn. May we not be overcome by evil Lord but may we overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). Amen.