You can’t escape it, the anger, name calling, violence, aggression and hate that invades our daily life on the news, in our schools, on social media and at work. We’ve all experienced it at one time or another because of our religious beliefs, our country of birth, the color of our skin, our political beliefs, our education, our social status and even our driving ability. It’s a sad commentary on the human condition. We shouldn’t be surprised by this, it’s a broken fallen world. 1 Peter 5:5 says, “Be alert and of sober mind, your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” From all I see, hear and read, he is succeeding with many.
How do we handle all this contention, anger and negativity? How do we find respite and not let it rob us of our sleep and peace of mind? How do we hold on to our sanity when all around us our world is crumbling, our families are suffering, and our hearts are broken time and time again?
John 16:13 “These things I have spoken to you, that in me, you may have peace. In this world you will have tribulation, be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
John 14:27 “Peace, I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, do not be afraid.”
Matthew 4:4-14 “And Jesus answered them, see that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name saying, I am the Christ and they will lead you astray. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for these must take place but, the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.
Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my names sake. And many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another. And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness will increase, the love of many will grow cold. But, the one who endures to the end will be saved.”
I will leave you with these final verses, Ephesians 4:31 “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander along with every form of malice.” Proverbs 15:1 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh voice stirs up anger.”
I will continue to speak out for those who are oppressed. I will continue to speak out for justice. I will continue to speak out and stand up for the teaching of Jesus. I will not back down or apologize for that. I will continue to ask for His guidance in prayer and study His word. I hope I speak with a gentle voice.
perseveranceandfaith.blog 