Are You Safe?

Gunshots. Screams. Horrific.

I had just lain down in bed when I got a Facebook notification: "Your friend Anne is safe."

That's how I learned of another assassination attempt, this time at Schwedenplatz in Vienna. Vienna, my favorite city! I sat in front of my computer for hours, watching the shocking images of what was still happening. "God, why?!"

At that moment, I sadly realized that yes, it wasn't the first time—and probably not the last time—we'd experience something like this. So how do we deal with the fear that often rises up inside of us?

Prepare for what you can't prepare for.

Hatred in the world is unfortunately very real. But we can have God's victory, which is just as real, before our eyes at all times:

"'...In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.'" (John 16:33 NKJV) This verse shows us that Jesus knew what was coming!

Other translations say, "'...Take heart!...'" (John 16:33 NIV) Again this means, "Be unconcerned. Be calm."

You can fall completely into the arms of God, the One who always keeps His Word! He knows exactly what happened yesterday, what will be today, and what we will experience tomorrow. But He also knows that it isn't forever…because He knows the end! The happy end He Himself promises us as His children!

Would you like to pray for peace with me today? "Jesus, it's true, I'm afraid sometimes. So many things happen that seem completely out of my control. But I want, and choose, to trust You…You alone. For I'm safe with You, even in the midst of the greatest dangers. I ask You for Your peace of mind, Jesus. I need You! In Jesus' name, amen."

You are a miracle!

Déborah