I'm not someone to spout political or controversial opinions all over the internet. I prefer keeping those topics to personal conversations. Not sure if this is breaking my rule, but I've been listening to lots of people's opinions about ISIS, Paris, terrorist bombings, and refugees. I've been joining many in prayer for these things as well.
Suddenly, it hit me this afternoon that while I should 100% spend time in prayer for the victims , these people were victims of an overwhelming problem- a problem that was sorely neglected in my prayers.
While I do not profess to be a hugely knowledgeable person when it comes to the in-depth complexities of politics or middle eastern conflicts, I have some idea that this group of religious extremists are not people you sit down and negotiate with. They have no defined country to invade and if you cut one down, more will come to uphold their cause. Seems pretty hopeless. Many say, "Let's bomb the bastards!" I'm not even going to get involved in that argument, as I personally have no bombs to drop.
What I do have at my disposal is the ear of a great and mighty God who can change hearts, lives, and allegiances! This is a weapon I will gladly wield against ISIS. I challenge believers everywhere, let's not only pray for the victims, families, and wounded; join me in prayer for those planning future violent attacks, those who are beheading the innocent, and those who strategize against all we hold dear. I choose to believe in a God that is bigger than the overwhelming issues we have in the world today and that God can overcome hatred and violence in a mighty way. I also believe that our prayers are powerful and God hears every word!
I'll let you in on a secret, this is not something that is easy, and at first it didn't even feel "right." At least not for me. However, Jesus said in Luke 6:32 that "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them." Believers are called to love the unlovable, even when they threaten our lives, security, and freedoms. Just look at Jesus' life and death and remember his sacrifice that extends to all who will come.
Thanks Raye! I too have been in great thought and have had many inner dialogue about what we as Christians should be focused on in light of the recent situations. I have not however been in prayer as much as I should about these things. I love the fact that you pointed out that our God is greater than any evil that is out there. Infact, one of God's greatest preachers/teachers in the bible could have been compared easily to the terrorist performing these terrible acts. Saul who was later converted and became Paul persecuted the very people he later came along side to preach the Gospel with. No one is beyond His reach. As for the refugees, if we prevent them from seeking refuge here we have done two things. One is that we have turned our backs on those in need which appears to say we don't care and could in turn create more hostility toward the US. Two, we have allowed the terrorist to win because our fear has prevented us from serving Christ by serving people. That's my personal view of what is going on and the stance we should take. Thank you for sharing yours.
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