Jesus Christ: Cure for A Broken World!

"We want to avoid suffering, death, sin, ashes. But we live in a world crushed and broken and torn, a world God Himself visited to redeem. We receive his poured-out life, and being allowed the high privilege of suffering with Him, may then pour ourselves out for others." - Elisabeth Elliot

Sadly, we live in a world filled with violence, anger, and varying degrees of evil. Reported outbursts of savagery toward one another rule the media outlets. It would appear that what were once unthinkable acts of cruelty and ferocity against humanity have now become the norm.

These are frightening times, for sure. But, this is the real world God has chosen for us to live in. This world comes complete with real choices and real consequences. Basically, in this world which we live in, our actions can and do affect others.

We all live under the curse of Adam's decision to sin; all are born with a corrupted and sinful nature (Romans 5:12). One day, God will judge the sin in this world, and set things right. But in the mean time, He is intentionally holding back to give people more time to repent, thus avoiding condemnation (2 Peter 3:9).

Meanwhile, make no mistake, God is very concerned about evil. Clearly, in both, Old Testament laws, and the New Testament, God is always in favor of discouraging and punishing evil, and providing justice for the innocent (Romans 13). He also comes down especially hard on those who carry out crimes against the guiltless (Mark 9:36-42).

Allow me to reiterate. The reality of this world is that our actions, whether good or bad, have direct/indirect outcomes that affect not only ourselves, but others, too. What God truly wants from us is our obedience. This will make things a lot easier on you and I (Deuteronomy 5:29).

Thankfully, God really does prevent and hold back some heinous acts. Think how much worse off this world would be if He didn't! In the interim, He has given us the ability (free-will) to choose between good or evil. If we choose the latter, He doesn't stand in our way. But again, those around us will suffer as a result.

There is one sure cure for all of the evil in the world and its aftereffects; Jesus Christ. Jesus came to change hearts by way of the Holy Spirit, and can do this when we choose to turn away from sin and take up his offer of salvation (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Scripture: Ephesians 1:7; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:14; Psalm 111:9; 1 Corinthians 1:30

Prayer: Hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption, amen  -Psalm 130:7

God loves you!

Lainie