More Terror…

Another scary week for citizens of both England and the U.S.  The plot that was uncovered was apparently designed to create another death toll similar to that of 9-11.

Wow.

What reaction goes on inside of you when you hear of evil such as this?  I have heard much ranting and raving in the last few days, and am not at all convinced that anger, bitterness, resentment, and griping are the kinds of responses that are most productive or that will be pleasing to the King of Kings.  Try some of these:

Thankfulness:  Gratitude that the plot was uncovered.  We do not need to spend all of our energy on the hypothetics of what might’ve happened.  Concern?  Yes.  But thankfulness for the loss of life prevented will be better for our perspective.

Prayer:  Be in the presence of God.  News channels and websites seem only to fuel the fire that breeds bitterness in our view of the world.  Take a moment to rest in His presence… focusing on Him and Him alone for a time… you’ll find stresses and worries will dissipate.

Trust:  We are told in Scripture that God Himself arranges the governments of the world.  I confess to struggling some with that concept, but I believe in the inspiration of the things we read in His Word.  The logical result, then, will be trust.  Trust in God to provide what is needed… and trust in the government given to us to protect and serve to the best of its ability.  Trust has always been a difficult choice.  Choose it.

Hope:  “..certain of what we do not see” is the definition of hope from the book of Hebrews.  One of the potential benefits from weeks that are marked by darkness, is to employ our hope.  Choosing certainty in God’s plan to redeem mankind to Himself.  Certainty that the value of the next life supersedes the issues that arise in this one.  Certainty.  Hope.

Love:  Tragedy, even nearly avoided tragedy brings reality squarely into focus.  The "what if’s" can be counter-productive… but can be helpful as well.  If pondering the weeks events has led you to a more consistent expression of love to those around you, the lesson has been a good one.  Love that is not known to be love cannot be felt.  Make your love known.

God, we are thankful for the week, despite it’s struggle and stress.  Continue to call us to You by the things we experience, and help us to choose the best responses to life, to evil, and to You.