The world today is filled with fear. It almost seems many leaders dwell on the negative events of life to promote fear. Somtimes they exaggerate the truth while sometimes they lie. Every year there are hurricanes and tornadoes, floods and droughts, violence and sickness. How should a Christian react to these impending disasters?
Our natural inclination as human beings is to worry. But how does that help us? Worry causes problems with out thoughts because we cannot adequately concentrate on issues we can do something about. Worry causes problems with our digestive system creating indigestion and causing us to lose our appetites or seek comfort food. We may lose sleep or take pills and sleep too much. What is the answer?
First, we do need to be aware of what is happening in the world, but we should not be consumed by it. We must remember that people we listen to for news may have agendas to promote that distort the facts. Second, we need to remember that we cannot control events. Third, we need to take appropriate precautions in the event we are affected by the event. And fourth, we must remember that God is in control, that He loves us, and He will not allow anything to happen to us that we are not able to endure. 1 Corinthians 10:13 and James 1:2-6.
In Psalm 46, the author does a great job dealing with this subject. In verses 2 and 3, he talks about earthquakes and hurricanes; in verse 6, he mentions the political chaos; and in verses 8 and 9, he talks about how God causes or allows the results of wars. But with all of this going on, he has the confidence to say, “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So, we will not fear when. . .” Verses 1 and 2. In verses 4 and 5, he proclaims, “A river brings joy to the city of our God, the sacred home of the Most High. God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed. From the very break of day, God will protect it.” And in verses 10 and 11, he seems to shout the words of God, “Be still and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world. The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress.”
At the time this psalm was written, Jerusalem was the city where God dwelt; it may have been in the tabernacle during David’s lifetime or in the temple later. But today, God does not dwell in a city but in His church and that is not a building but in each individual believer collectively. We are His dwelling place, and He will watch over us and meet our needs until He calls us to be with Him.