Facing Danger Today

Since there is so much violence around, we may have worried feelings about terrifying things happening today. I could be apprehended and treated violently or taken to a dangerous spot where anything could happen. Here in my hometown, I feel very safe, but the world these days worries me. If trouble came my way, what would I do? Am I prepared to face possible danger? We can give thanks that the Spirit of the Lord is upon us. Jesus is with us helping us to face danger appropriately. I feel His protection all the time.

I was in the grocery store the other day when my credit card wouldn't work. I was embarrassed, but then, a stranger from the line behind me came forward and paid my bill. It was such a Christian thing to do! I was very thankful, and I will repay them. As a believer in Jesus, I look to His Spirit to guide me through my day, providing for my needs. I am protected and loved even as danger circles around.

Years ago when my friend Dorothy and I went on a trip to Israel, I remember going to see the heights above Nazareth where Jesus was harassed and almost thrown over the cliff.

Luke 4:28-30 – All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. They got up, drove him out of town, and took him to the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him down the cliff. But he walked right through the crowd and went on his way. (NIV)

When Dorothy and I looked down the cliff, the depth of the fall to the valley below was frightening. Jesus was in a very scary situation, but He just walked safely through all the violence and went on His way. Today, Jesus' Spirit still guides us through dangerous situations. Many people are lost and afraid. Many refugees are looking at us from afar, and we need to pray for them, asking Jesus' Spirit to go with each one.

In the synagogue in Nazareth, prior to the blow-up, Jesus had read Isaiah 61:1 to the gathered people:

Luke 4:18 – The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed. (NIV)

We are called to do this all over the world today where the love and provision of the Lord is greatly needed, as many people face dangers and need our prayers and support. Their hurting, desperate, lonely, suffering hearts need the Lord's love and provision. He will lead us through all danger.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your presence and guidance today. We trust You with all our comings and goings. Help us to reach out to help people who are suffering, alone, and desperate. May we share Your love with them. Amen.

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