By Pastor Stuart Weist
First Baptist Church of Preston
Where do you turn when the world is in chaos? Just a week ago I headed out for some one-on-one time with my 11-year-old son. We packed our bags and headed North to Bayfield, Wis., where we spent five wonderful days swimming, hiking, and camping on the shores of the Apostle Islands National Park. It was a great time of just being father and son, sharing a few “dad” jokes while imparting some wisdom and having that guy time all men ought to have with their children. However, when we returned to the truck, I turned on the radio and caught the news. COVID cases are up, Afghanistan is back in the hands of terrorists, vaccines are now in need of a “booster”; it was an endless stream of bad news. It seems no matter where you look the world is descending deeper and deeper into chaos. So, in times like these where do you turn; where do you find strength and hope? This is the fundamental question we all must answer.
The Bible teaches that Christ is the answer. He said, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27) Christian, do you have this peace? Many today find themselves in a state of fear and turmoil. They look to the world and see suicide rates on the increase, a country in chaos, death and illness all around, and a lack of trust in authorities. This is because ultimately their faith is in themselves not Christ. What drives them is their ability to make sense of the world, control their circumstances, or extend their life. Unfortunately, when you believe that scientists are saviors and governments are secure, you are destined for disappointment.
Listen, we all fall short of perfection (Romans 3:23). If we want hope, peace and joy then we must place our trust wholeheartedly in the God who never changes. He must be the very foundation of your life. He is to be your Rock and Deliverer (2 Sam 22:2). He is to be your Chief Cornerstone (Acts 4:11). Only when your life and worldview are rooted in the Creator Himself can you truly have peace and security in this world.
As my son and I loaded the truck I switched off the radio and put away my phone. We traveled home talking about the adventure we had and enjoyed the beauty of God’s creation all around us. Our happiness, hope, and joy were not rooted in the world and the fears of society but in the Righteous and Almighty Hand of our Creator. We went to sleep that night at peace with the world knowing that we did not have to be in control, HE IS. We have