UNC Charlotte Tragedy
God does not cause tragedy, but He can use our reaction to tragedy to speak to us.
Suffering or tragedy that we experience in this world does three things.
It leads us to seek God
It leads us to trust God more
It increases our desire for heaven
Tragic events remind us not only that we live in an imperfect and fallen world, but that there is a God who loves us and wants something better for us than the world has to offer.
After watching and listening to some footage from the school shooting in UNCC, I feel compelled to communicate to our church and those that follow our ministry.
First of all, we live in a godless, chaotic and perverse world. The world we live in is not a good place. Scripture tells us that the whole world is under the sway of the wicked one.
Secondly, my heart goes out to all those affected by this gutless and spineless coward. There is pain in our community. We are praying for all of you.
Thirdly, when we hear about these tragedies, the temptation to fear is aggressive. So remember, as believers in Christ, in no shape or form should we walk around afraid for our lives or the lives of our family members. Our eternal destination is heaven. Guaranteed! Our covenant with God is a covenant that promotes freedom from fear. There are over 300 verses that tell us, "DO NOT FEAR". The major tactic of our enemy is to use fear as a weapon against us. Fear causes torment. Fear makes you think things that you shouldn't. Fear paralyzes you. Fear causes you to panic. Fear will tell you that you or one of your family members will die tonight. Resist the urge to walk with fear. Be bold! Walk with courage. Courage is pressing forward and doing what you are afraid to do. Your Heavenly Father loves you. He has a plan for your life and the lives of your family members. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Walk with boldness. Refuse to fear.
Meditate on how much you are loved by God. Remember, our job is to believe that God will do His job! I love you and I am always praying for you!