ArcaMax recently published an article from the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham. The article may be read online HERE.
Q: This world is getting worse by the day. There is so much hatred, anger, and rage. It has even become dangerous to go to church these days. Where is all this heading, and how do we keep one another encouraged in order to overcome fear of living? – D.C.
A: Evil has been present in the world from the moment sin invaded God’s perfect world. Wars have raged around the world from the beginning of time. But part of the angst that is present today can be the result of a 24-hour news cycle, something that hit in the last part of the 20th century with the coming of cable news and the internet.
People are forever hearing about bad news. But the Bible says that in the final days before Jesus returns to this earth there will be “terrible times.” Jesus Himself declared that we “will hear of wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:6, NKJV). More than any other time in history, more Christians are martyred for their faith.
Our world is filled with hatred, anger, conflict, turmoil, and insecurity. Jesus said the basic problem is in our hearts — and the reason is because we are alienated from our Creator. Instead of giving God His rightful place at the center of our lives, we have substituted the gods of this world that claim to satisfy mankind’s longings. But only Christ can change our hearts.
Does this mean that we can never make any progress against the massive problems that assail society? No, of course not; God wants us to fight evil wherever it is found. But our greatest need is for repentance and spiritual renewal and to keep Christ at the center of our thoughts and actions.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear. … Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:1–2, 10, NKJV).
Got Questions states: The Bible mentions two specific types of fear. The first type is beneficial and is to be encouraged. The second type is a detriment and is to be overcome. The first type of fear is fear of the Lord. This type of fear does not necessarily mean to be afraid of something. Rather, it is a reverential awe of God, a reverence for His power and glory; however, it is also a proper respect for His wrath and anger. In other words, the fear of the Lord is a total acknowledgement of all that God is, which comes through knowing Him and His attributes.
Click HERE for more about “fear” from Got Questions.
