ATRIED-AND-TRUE WORLDVIEW PERSPECTIVE
Think of it this way . . .
How do you see today’s world? As you pause to ponder the question, you have to admit that it calls for deep thought, right? First, you have to think about how it was way back when, so you can compare times past with the present. Also, it matters what your worldview is: created and controlled by God or happened by chance and accidents? We declare, by research and reason that, due to the intricate design of the earth and the movement of just our solar system, there is overwhelming evidence for a Supreme Intelligence at work here. We believe it wise to recognize that Intelligence as the unfailing omniscience of God, Creator of the heavens and earth.
Man is not omniscient. In fact, “all have sinned and are not good enough to share God’s divine greatness” (Rom. 3:23 Easy-to-Read Version). Therefore, being imperfect, due to our sinful nature, the New Testament writer, James, says to all believing in the Divine Godhead, “anyone who wants to be friends with this evil world becomes God’s enemy” (Js. 4:4). Peter adds this: “don’t be surprised at the painful things that you are now suffering, which are testing your faith. Don’t think that something strange is happening to you” (1 Pet. 4:12). “Painful trials” & “fiery ordeals” are a part of life on earth. Sin, you see, infects and affects everything.
In just my lifetime there have been many kinds of ‘pandemics’ already. Think about it – WWI, Spanish Flu epidemic, Great Depression, WWII, Smallpox, Polio, Korean and Vietnam Wars. Tens of millions perished! Jesus says, “I have told you these things so that you can have peace in Me. In this world you will have troubles” (Jn. 16:33). Well I guess so! Then, He concludes His statement with this: “But be brave! I have defeated the world!” Just because we give ourselves to God through our faithfulness; trying to live an upright, honest life, it will not exempt us from earthly troubles. But we can cope and overcome…through Him!
Want more assurance? Jesus said, “Don’t be troubled. Trust in God, and trust in Me…. I give you peace in a different way than the world does…. So, don’t be troubled…. Don’t be afraid.” (Jn 14:1, 27). Alright, then.
-John D.
