The news in the last week has been dominated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Reports of death and destruction, of people having to flee their homes, and wild speculations of the possible consequences of this newest conflict on the world’s economy, have filled the airways. There has even been talk about a possible nuclear war.
For many this news is causing increased anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and worry about the future. A dear friend told me she can’t even watch the news, because it makes her so anxious. She has to leave the room when others bring up the war. I know how she feels. These are anxious times for all of us.
Remember, however, that the events we are seeing on the news are merely the death throes of a defeated enemy. Like a snake whose head has been cut off, yet whose body continues to thrash about, Satan, “that ancient serpent called the devil”, though defeated by Christ at the Cross, continues to wreak mayhem on the earth. “He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.” (Revelation 12:12).
Troubled times lay ahead for our world. Jesus warned us in Matthew 24:6-8, “You will hear of wars and rumours of wars…Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.” (Matthew 24:7).
Yet, in spite of all this, Jesus tells us “see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” (v. 6). God is still on His throne. He is still there for you.
“‘Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,’ says the Lord, who has compassion on you.” (Isaiah 54:10).
God is in control. You do not need to be afraid. Instead He invites you to, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7). If you do, then “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7).
This week, when the winds of strife howl around you and you feel your anxiety building, remember the same Jesus who stilled the storm to a whisper, who calmed the crashing waves of Galilee, stands ready to calm the storms in your heart. Take refuge in Him today and let Him be your shelter in the time of storm.
God bless, have a wonderful week!
