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Who Do You Fear?
Is it just me, or has the media gone to extremes to stir fear in the hearts of people? Back in 2009 there was talk of a pandemic when approximately 60 million cases of swine flu were discovered worldwide in a population of over 6 billion. I’m not trying to downplay the tragedy of the 2009 flu virus, and the death of several hundred thousand people, but if you only read the headlines, you would think we were on the verge of a Hollywood type world destroying pandemic.
The truth is, that any virus can be potentially deadly, and many are. Human life is precious, and hangs in the balance between life and death on a daily basis. Auto accidents, heart disease, violent crime, war, fire, accidents around the home, and many other means by which our lives can suddenly end surround us every day.
This fact has been with us from the beginning of time. God has not promised to protect us from any natural or manmade disasters. He has promised us a better existence after this life is over, if we are willing to accept a few conditions on His terms.
Jesus, when asked about certain individuals whose blood had been mingled with sacrifices offered this response, "Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish." (Luke 13:2-3) One thing we must certainly do is be willing to repent, or change our ways, when it comes to sin.
Our sins may not be the reason that we may suddenly die on this earth, but our sins will certainly keep us from the spiritual blessings that God has promised to those that obey Him. The worldly fear that the media attempts to instill in us should pale in comparison to the reverent fear we should have for God and His word. Listen to the words of Jesus, "But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!" (Luke 12:4-5)
Let’s not allow the media to cause us to live in fear. Somehow and some way, our lives will come to an end, this fact remains clear. However, God has given us all the information we need to have comfort and peace, and to feel safe with the thought of blessed assurance that we can achieve the glories of heaven by simply believing in Him and accepting His terms for our salvation. “Repent, and be baptized for the remission of your sins.” (Acts 2:38)
