Surviving the Turbulent World of Today

"The blade itself incites to deeds of violence."  -HOMER, The Odyssey

It is no big secret that we live in a violent world. The prevalence of violence throughout our planet leaves one shaking their heads and wondering when the next occurrence will be. Wars, terrorist attacks, racial unrest, and various other atrocities against mankind seem to rule the headlines.

Unfortunately, for us who inhabit this planet, it has always been so. Granted, there have been periods of peace interspersed among periods of strife and unrest. But, that's about the extent of it. Truces, laws, and treaties may provide us a brief respite. But again, the keyword here is "brief."

Is there any hope for us? Are doomed? There are many different voices giving many different takes on questions such as these. Most of the time, it only serves to add to the confusion. But in one short answer: Yes, there is hope!

First, let's understand that there are some in the world who are good and others who are wicked, or evil. We could go into all sorts of deep, theological and philosophical arguments about this, but that's just the way it basically is. However, this doesn't mean that we cannot change. Anything is possible with Christ!

I refer you to what happened to Saul on the road to Damascus in Acts 9:1–9; Acts 22:6–11; and Acts 26:9–20. Saul, who became the apostle Paul, had been one of the worst persecutors of the early followers of Jesus. While on his way to the temple in Jerusalem to arrest followers of Christ, he was dramatically converted and commissioned by Jesus Christ in what is known as the "Damascus Road experience."

In this particular instance, we see that it is possible for a person to change their ways from evil to good, or be converted through Christ. Does it work for everyone? Unfortunately, there will be those who, being misled and misguided by sin, will not be open to receiving him. Their sins have hidden His face from them.

Was Jesus under the impression that the world could be changed? He encouraged his disciples to go out and spread his gospel. He knew the only way to present any hope of change was to get his Word and teachings out to the masses (Mark 16:15).

But Jesus knew he had his work cut out for him. There are definite challenges, especially when dealing with those who are bent on being evil (Isaiah 57:28). Evil is always festering underneath even those of us who consider ourselves intrinsically good. That's what makes it so difficult to acquire true, lasting peace as a species (Isaiah 59:8).

Jesus was aware that in order to create change he was going to have to put himself out there. Change will not happen if one is simply standing in the shadows. He knew that there will be conflict between good and evil. Jesus was not as passive as many think he was. He saw a fight and came prepared. He told us as much in Matthew 10:34–36.

Good and evil will always clash with one another until the day when Jesus Christ returns and sets all right again (Matthew 24:30; Revelation 19:11-16.) Until then what can we do? We can hold on tightly to God's Word, which he gave for our benefit. Read and study the Bible. Regular prayer, and fellowship with other Christians are definite helps, too.

Scripture tells us: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:21).  "Do not repay evil with evil" (1 Peter 3:9). "Be slow to anger" (Proverbs 16:32). "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you" (Luke 6:27). These are all good starting points to follow.

And, if you find yourself becoming weak and beginning to lean the other way, don't beat yourself up over it. When going through a bad experience or rough patch of road, even good people are tempted to have second thoughts about God.

Give your troubles to the Lord. Let him help you out of whatever pit you are in (Psalm 55:22; 1 Peter 5:7). Place your trust with Him (Psalm 37:5). He does hear us, and doesn't get angry at us for coming too often. In fact, the more frequently we do,  the more welcome we are.

The world we live in is definitely not a paradise. Many things can happen that are not within our control. Being sinners living in a sinful world doesn't make it any easier either.Yet, we are not alone in all of the chaos and confusion (Psalm 27:14; Psalm 130:5). The comforting and strengthening voice of Christ is only as far way as your Bible and prayer.

Scripture: Proverbs 3:5; Philippians 4:19; Jeremiah 33:3; Micah 2:1; Romans 6:23

Prayer: Dear God, in a world filled with so much bad and suffering, I need You to take my hand and guide me along in Your loving mercy and grace. I know You will never forsake me nor give me more than I can handle. Amen

May you have a blessed day!

Linzie