Reading: Ephesians 5:16

It seems that every news article has death, fighting, or war. Evidences of human anger or natural disasters are everywhere and all the time. How should the Christian think in light of the surfeit of suffering that envelopes our world?

Death and suffering are the result of the fall of man. When God created this world death was unknown. Adam and Eve were created in holiness and righteousness. They had peace with God and there was no suffering and no death. But when Adam sinned that changed, and ever since the world has been marked with sorrow, suffering, and death. Sin brings death.

God is in sovereign control of all the affairs of this world. Tragic events often give rise to the thought that either the world is out of control or the world is in the devil’s control. Neither position is true. God is still on the throne. He is not the author of sin, but He is over all the affairs of men. He rules as the omnipotent God. He judges and works according to the counsel of His own perfect will. He is sovereign. This is true even of the inexplicable events of life.

God’s people have a solemn responsibility to redeem the time. Sudden destruction impresses upon the heart that life at best is brief. Time is short; therefore, we must buy up the time or redeemed it for God’s glory. Believers must pray and work to bring the gospel to a dying world.

Doubtless, these are fearful times for many. Yet there is good news to report. But you won’t find the headline tracking across the screen of any news broadcast. The good news is found in God’s Word. It declares that though we are weak, vulnerable humans, God’s children can find strength and grace in Him even in debilitating circumstances. (John MacArthur on 9/11)