Good Always Wins.

If you’ve tuned into the news lately you might be feeling a little uneasy about all the unrest, not only in our country but throughout the world. You may be feeling anxious about your future or the future of your kids and grandkids. If you are like me and have a good understanding of the Bible, you may still be having a hard time grasping all that is going on. I try not to get very “preachy” in my writing but lately I have felt the need to speak more in terms of spirituality. For me, looking at these current events unfolding through the lens of the Bible actually makes me feel comforted. In my understanding of the Bible, we are nearing the end of the end of the world as we know it. As the disciples ask in Matthew 24, Tell us…what are the signs, and how will we know the end of the age? Jesus gives a list of things, from wars and rumors of wars to earthquake and pestilences. He goes on to say, …these are the beginning of sorrows. Matthew 24:8. Basically, he is saying these things will grow in frequency and intensity. From my standpoint, that is exactly what is happening right now. This could really cause anxious hearts, but Jesus also provides instruction along with that explanation. He instructs, “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. Luke 21:34. With these words Jesus is saying, do not worry and keep control of your behavior. There are a lot of threats out there that can seem terrifying. As the world events unfold, I plan to sit back and dig further into studying the Bible. I will be praying for deeper wisdom to know how to navigate these uncertainties. I will not let my mind get weighed down with worries of what can happen, nor will I put my hope in a certain political party, leader, or manmade laws. God knows what is going to happen and we know things must get worse before they get better. Worrying will not change anything. It only distracts you from the things that need your attention most, such as children, significant others, parents, co-workers who may be struggling, etc. Worry also negatively impacts mood and can cause anger and irritability. Furthermore, excessive worry can prompt unhealthy habits, such as, over consumption of things harmful in excess. In turn, these things squash out goodness, patience, understanding and kindness.  Now is the time to focus on and give full attention to your tasks at hand. Give 100% to the things you are responsible for. Focus on creating positive relationships with the ones around you. As a believer and follower of Christ my personal goal is to someday hear the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant!” Focusing on those words keeps my head up high and keeps what is most important at the forefront. We are definitely living in a world of good vs. evil. Hold tight to the truth that good always wins.