The Fear of Crime, Racism, Terrorism, & Politics
Psalm 46:1-2, 6-7; Jeremiah 22:3; Romans 12:18-21
1God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
2Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
6Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
7The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
3This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place.
18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”12:19 Deut. 32:35 says the Lord. 20On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”12:20 Prov. 25:21,22
21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
A Word of Declaration:
God is:
- Our refuge
- Our strength
- Ever present help
- God is the One who makes things right
The Application:
- Do what is just and right
- Rescue the one robbed, harmed, etc.
- Do no wrong or violence - who are foreigners
- Live at peace with everyone
- Do not take revenge
- Give them water
The Goal:
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Based on Adam Hamilton’s “Unafraid: Living with Courage and Hope in Uncertain Times”
TODAY'S PREACHER
Randy Reese is Co-Directing Pastor of Calvary UMC