Tag: turbulent times

I don’t think there is any doubt that we live in turbulent times.

And if there is one thing that can overwhelm us in such times, it’s anger. I see a lot of anger around me. I see it on social media. I see it from social commentators, both Christian and non-Christian, liberal and conservative.

With all this anger around us, it can be very easy to get swept right along with it and become angry people ourselves. I know I struggle not to give in to it.

Closely associated with that anger is fear. Fear of the future. Fear of what may happen in our country. Fear of what might happen to us. And I believe it is that fear that drives much of our anger.

David knew both feelings. He was being attacked and slandered by his enemies. He knew what it meant to be afraid and angry. And so he cried out to God,

Answer me when I call,
God, who vindicates me.

You freed me from affliction;
be gracious to me and hear my prayer. (Psalm 4:1)

To his enemies, he said,

How long, exalted ones, will my honor be insulted?

How long will you love what is worthless
and pursue a lie? (2)

And all around him, people were saying,

“Who can show us anything good?” (6)

But in the midst of all the anger and fear surrounding him and within himself, he said,

Be angry and do not sin;
reflect in your heart while on your bed and be silent. Selah

Offer sacrifices in righteousness,
and trust in the Lord. (4-5)

The word “anger” has the idea of great agitation, and usually is translated “fear” in the Bible, although anger is certainly another possible translation.

But whatever the source of our agitation, we are to guard our hearts and not sin.

Rather, we should take the time, especially at the end of the day, to reflect in our hearts and be silent before God. To make sure our hearts are right before him. And to once again, reorient our hearts to him, putting our trust in him.

The people all around us are filled with fear and anger and are often controlled by these things.

But we are not to be this way. If we let ourselves be dominated by our fear and anger, we are no different from them, and no light will shine out through us.

And this is a world that desperately needs to see that light, especially now.

So while this world gives in to fear and anger, let us turn to the Lord, trusting him. Only then will we know his joy in the midst of the turmoil. And only then, will we be able to say with David,

I will both lie down and sleep in peace,
for you alone, Lord, make me live in safety. (8)

The God of peace be with you in these troubled times.