He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore. -Isaiah 2:4 (NIV)
Across the street from the United Nations is this verse, its unofficial mission statement.
In this day and age, with horrific tragedies and killings within countries and among them, it would be easy to think God’s standing away from it all. For nonbelievers, it’s proof that He doesn’t exist.
It’s just nuts, right? Chaos? There’s no sense to this…or is there?
More than ever, we need to acknowledge God is working through all people, all circumstances, and all governments. As He has shown over and over in His Word, He allows trials and even centuries-long scourges to occur. Sometimes its the consequence of disobedience (sin). Sometimes it’s to strengthen and prepare us for something He is readying for us. Sometimes, as my pastor said in a recent sermon, it’s to get our attention.
I refer to it often, but it is so reassuring when every circle in your life seems to make no sense at all:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. -Romans 8:28 (NIV)
That verse gives me peace, no matter how badly storms are raging, and I hope it does for you, too.
And the verse at the top of this post reassures us that Christ, upon His return, will judge. The verse poetically describes His transforming weapons into implements of animal husbandry. And when we read this, we know that He can work through us now, if only He lives in our hearts.
There will be war and strife while we walk on this fallen earth, but make no mistake: We carry His peace here and now, and can infectiously spread it by outwardly showing the fruit of the Spirit from within!
Today’s soundtrack
Another agent tipped me off to “If We’ve Ever Needed You” by Casting Crowns, which was perfectly timed for this post. Thank you!
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