In front the violence

"A noise will come a year, and after him another noise another year, and there will be violence on the earth, domineering against ruler." Jeremiah 51. 46

The "normal" condition of the world is not peace, but violence. Since the fall, the man by nature is violent. Cain commits on his brother Abel the first murder of humanity and thus inaugurates on this earth the reign of violence.

Centuries pass ; violence and lies are growing. By his behavior man shows that "the imagination of the thoughts of his heart is nothing but wickedness at all times" (Gen. 6. 5). The Lord sends the flood to destroy, except for Noah's family, this "corrupt" and "full of violence" population.

All human societies, all cultures, are working on the same effort that is constantly renewed : trying to tame the violence that inhabits them, or at least to codify their use. But, if we look a little closer, violence is not really external to men as could be a social phenomenon. It comes from within and returns constantly to hide itself there ; she lives potentially inside each of us and that's what can engender fear. So, let us ask God to give us in all areas a "gentle and peaceful spirit" (1 Pet. 3: 4).

In the face of violence, what should be the attitude of the believer ? Should he give in to fear like many humans who anxiously starve anyone they meet ? Should not he rather rely on God and give him his own life ? ... and say like David : "God is my rock, I will trust in him, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my high retirement and my refuge. My Savior, you will save me from violence" (2 Sam. 22. 3). And add full of confidence, always like David : "On God alone my soul rests peacefully : from him comes my salvation" (Ps. 62. 1).

Let us ask God for faith and courage not to yield to violence but to radiate peace around us, showing no concern at the excesses of hatred ; for we know that the Father does not look out for us. Let us take advantage of these troubled moments to show those who observe us that our hearts can be filled with peace at every moment as soon as we turn confidently to our great Savior.

Source (Pleasing the Lord)