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Power Point - January 19, 2005

 

January 19, 2005

 

“And I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!”

-Luke 12:4-5

 

Moments in time that mark history forever also leave a lasting impact on our emotions. I may be sitting in a packed stadium cheering for my favorite team or casually walking through the mall with my wife and I catch myself looking into the faces of the people around me and wondering: “Is that individual a hero or heroine? I wonder if anyone in this crowd has the strength and courage to rise to the occasion and perform a heroic deed.”

 

I don’t think any one of us can predict accurately just how we would respond in a time of crisis. We may be intellectually equipped or trained; however, circumstances can affect our reactions.

 

I have been called to the bedside of many individuals suffering or severely injured, and by God’s grace I can touch the individual, pray with compassion, and reach out to family members to comfort them. However, when my wife or one of my kids is hurt or sick, I don’t have the same emotional strength. I know the reality of the situation, but my heart and head don’t work in concert. My heart takes over, and it is difficult to think rationally.

 

Physical tragedy brings pain and suffering, but we must keep in perspective the reality pointed out in Luke 12:4-5: We should not fear what may kill our bodies, but we should fear the One who can kill our souls.

 

As believers in Christ, we need to demonstrate courage and boldly tell the message of salvation that is possible through a personal relationship with Jesus. True heroes and heroines protect, rescue, and defend. When someone is threatened by impending danger, our bodies have an amazing capacity to respond. We’ve read accounts of individuals who have moved heavy objects with Herculean strength to free a trapped person. The surge of adrenaline at the time of crisis allows us to respond with unnatural strength.

 

For the Christian, there is a supernatural strength that can empower every believer. The Spirit of God will empower you to bring hope to the hopeless, courage to the fearful, strength to the weary, and joy to those who are sad.

 

SUPERNATURAL HOPE FOR A FUTURE IN ETERNITY

AND THE FUTURE STARTS NOW.