In Psalm 112:7-8 (NLT), we read that the righteous, do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.
It does not say that we wouldn't hear bad news, or be without foes. It promises that we will be triumphant over whatever comes our way.
When Jesus spoke of coming events in the last days, events such as wars, rumors of wars, famines, and earthquakes, He said, "Don't panic." (Matt. 24:6; Mark 13:7; Luke 21:19 NLT)
Panic is: sudden uncontrollable fear or anxiety, often causing wildly unthinking behavior; widespread financial or commercial apprehension provoking hasty action; a frenzied hurry to do something.
The word panic, comes from the Greek word panikos, from the name of the god Pan, noted for causing terror, and to whom woodland noises were attributed.
The antonym for panic is "calm."
While we know that in the last days perilous times will come, (2 Tim. 3:1-5), we also know that God is pouring His Spirit out on all flesh (Acts 1:17). There has never been a more exciting time to be alive.
One thing I have learned in life is that humans hate surprises unless there is a big red bow attached to the top of it. Daily life is sometimes full of surprises.
"Daddy, I missed the bus, and my glasses just broke."
"Mommy, the dog got out."
"Honey, the dryer door won't stay shut, and the sink is not draining."
"Sweetie, the bank just wrote us and says we've bounced seven checks; are we overdrawn?"
"Did I tell you my parents are coming tonight to spend a few days with us?
Have you ever had the thought, "What in the world is going on?" We all have at some time.
While the majority of Americans believe in God, the Devil, Heaven, and Hell, many do not know the authority Jesus gave Christians in this unseen realm. The spiritual world is just as real as the natural world you and I see every day.
Let's look at what God says about it.
1. Ephesians 6: 10-13 (NLT) "A final word. Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all the strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh and blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities in the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm."
2. 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NLT) "Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith."
3. James 4:7 (NLT) So humble yourselves before God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.
4. John 10:10 (NLT) The thief's purpose is to kill, steal, and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
5. Luke 10:17-18 (NLT) When the 72 disciples returned they joyfully reported to Him (Jesus), "Lord, even the demons obey us when we use your name! "Yes", He told them, "I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning. Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure you. But don't rejoice because evil spirits obey you, rejoice because your names are registered in heaven."
6. John 17[15 (NLT) (Jesus praying), "I am not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one."
As believers, we need to practice using the name of Jesus and the authority God have given us against this unseen realm that opposes us. Let's walk in the victory God has provided. Again, Psalm 112 did not say that we would not hear bad news, it said we would not fear bad news. It did not say we would not have any enemies, it said we would face them triumphantly.
Thank God for his promises of protection and peace!
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