A False Security
By Caron Cline
Burke County
On September 11, 2001, the foundations of our nation were shaken. It is hard to imagine that 22 years have passed so quickly. Four passenger airplanes were hijacked by terrorists who attempted to destroy our nation’s economic, political, and military centers. In doing so, they were also willing to destroy themselves. Life suddenly changed for Americans and fear filled hearts as never before. This attack on our home court was shocking and completely unexpected. 2996 people died that day and thousands more were injured. Who would dare attempt such an evil act against the most powerful nation in the world?
The answer is Islamic terrorists who were angered by America’s support of Israel, among other things. 9/11 was a rude awakening to the vulnerability of the United States of America against terrorist attacks. Pew Research Center surveyed a large group of Americans in the days following the attacks; 71% felt depressed; 49% had difficulty concentrating; 33% had trouble sleeping. Could it be that most of these people were suffering from false security?
Dependence upon a government, a political party, or a strong military is a recipe for disaster. For followers of Christ, our help and our hope are in the name of the Lord. News outlets focus on violence, global warming, natural disasters, and deadly diseases. A steady diet of these entrées will distort a believer’s perspective, producing emotions not consistent with the word of God.
Proverbs 18:10 says: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe”. There are multiple descriptive names used for God in the Old Testament. When the inflation rate threatens to swallow young families, Jehovah Jireh, the Lord our Provider, is a refuge. When wars and rumors of wars produce fear of the future, Jehovah Shalom, the Lord our Peace, is perfect rest. When unexplained diseases attack unexpectedly, Jehovah Rapha, the Lord our Healer, is the Great Physician. When isolation and loneliness deliver depression and emotional anguish, Jehovah Shamma, the Lord Who is there, is ever present, refusing to leave or forsake His children. When mass shootings at schools, churches, and retail outlets become commonplace, Jehovah Chereb, the God Who fights on behalf of His people, is our shield and victory.
Most importantly, Jehovah Elyon, the Most High God, is sovereign over each and every world event. The One Who watches over His people neither slumbers nor sleeps. ‘The Lord will keep you from all harm-He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore’. (Psalm 121:7-8)
Anxiety issues are at epidemic proportions in our nation, yet those who know their God and run into the strong tower of His Name will receive the wisdom, grace, and peace necessary to navigate the white waters of this turbulent world. It is futile to trust your security to this world’s systems; instead, trust the only One Who knows the end from the beginning. His foundation will never be shaken!
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Caron is a follower of Jesus Christ and a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Morganton, NC. She loves to teach the word of God.
Her desire is to see every believer grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord.
You can read more Christian News from Caron HERE.
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