TERROR and Tragedy

Whenever Tragedy strikes TERROR almost always follows.  In fact, TERROR can be something that even occurs in an individual’s mind, which will almost always lead to a tragedy that will impact others.  The news came last night that yesterday there was another murder on the VT Campus.  The details are still coming out and the investigation pending and it appears that this is an isolated incident with the suspect in custody (though it never is isolated completely).  The fact is that we impact everyone around us and our TERROR will either have a negative or even a positive impact…

Positive TERROR?  How can this be?  There is actually a so called “War on Terror” today.  This legitimate war is a difficult one to fight as we cannot know the thoughts of another, except by what they convey in word, demeanor, and action.  09-11-01 certainly brought TERROR to many people in this country and worldwide!  04-16-07 also brought TERROR worldwide.  For a moment, in each case, the spirit of American’s and others worldwide was broken.  Pride was out and humility and dependence on GOD was in (at least for those not overwhelmed by TERROR or fear).  Having a broken spirit is essential if we are to be best used for good (just consider how you must “break” a horse in order to best utilize its potential).  Friend, as noted in yesterday’s blog, this is the opposite of the Pride of man that was exemplified at the 01-20-09 Presidential Inauguration and even the 04-17-07 VT Convocation.

Scripture says that GOD HATES PRIDE.  It is the first of what sins are called an ABOMINATION.  Consider Proverbs 6:16ff:

“These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: 17 A proud look….”

GOD demands allegiance to HIM first, even as the first of the 10 Commandments says (c.f. Exodus 20:3).  This is also why my #1 Lesson is FEAR GOD ABOVE ALL.  This is how TERROR can be positive.  In fact, the Christian should realize that he has a responsibility to even persuade others (not terrorizing them personally, but helping them see the TERROR of the LORD GOD).  This is also emphasized for the believer in CHRIST, when he or she will give an account for their life of service. 2 Corinthians 5:10-11 says:

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. 11 Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.”

Friend, if you are not a follower of CHRIST (you cannot be a true Christian in name only) then you have a whole lot more to FEAR in the changes that are coming in this world (The Tribulation) and facing GOD in Judgment at HIS GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGMENT (see Revelation 20:11-15).  You might also refer to my 06-13-08 Blog “Fear and Change.”

Do not be TERRORIZED by what is going on around you!  Have a Holy TERROR that will be positive toward others and help them truly change and prevail through anything in life!