We live in a world of turmoil and chaos. 

People attack each other over disagreements, misstatements, differences of opinion, and judgments.  

“In those days there was no king in Israel; every man did what was right in his own eyes.” Judges‬ ‭21:25‬ ‭

The media elevates these differences to the level of crisis, which causes anxiety in us, daily. What are we to do? The world is seemingly falling apart. Who can save us?

“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]” -John‬ ‭16:33‬ ‭

I read or watch the news, and I am sad and lose heart and my peace, even though I am well aware of the previous verse. What am I to do to relieve my anxiety?

“[Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One)” -‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10:5‬ 

That’s the answer! I must capture my anxiety-producing thoughts and change them to thoughts that produce peace.

 “For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them]. Practice what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and model your way of living on it, and the God of peace (of untroubled, undisturbed well-being) will be with you.” -‭Philippians‬ ‭4:8-9‬ ‭

Many allow their thoughts to hold them captive, but God has made it clear that we have been given the ability to change our minds, and our thoughts. 

Dread is not of God. Hysteria is not of the God we serve. If they were, there would not be a good reason to look to Him in times of trouble. The Lord is our refuge. A refuge is not needed in times of peace. We seek refuge when we need protection. 

“The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.” -Proverbs‬ ‭18:10‬ ‭

All of us are concerned about our life and times. Let’s run to a trustworthy savior. Run!