Stand

 Habakuk 1:2-4 How long, O Lord, must I call for help? But you do not listen! “Violence is everywhere!” I cry, but you do not come to save. Must I forever see these evil deeds? Why must I watch all this misery? Wherever I look, I see destruction and violence. I am surrounded by people who love to argue and fight. The law has become paralyzed and there is no justice in the courts. The wicked far outnumber the righteous, so that justice has become perverted. 

I know this is the cry of your heart. I know that this world of yours is wearing you down. I understand that it is difficult to watch and experience, day by day, the evil that is seemingly in control of your world. Do not grow weary, child. Do not give up on your world, on trying to help your people. I have you here for a reason. I have you here for a specific purpose. Spend your time in my Word. Spend your days in constant prayer and listening for my voice. Spend your time looking to me, not around to what is happening. Yes, pay attention. But only enough attention that you know what to pray about, how to respond, what I may have you do directly to help your fellow man. Do not pay so much attention that it causes you despair or defeat. Although it may not seem to be true, I am still in control. Yes there is much pain and evil in your world at the moment. Yes, there are many who are suffering unjustly. Yes, there are many in power who abuse that power and abuse those under the control of their position or authority. Yes, there is evil at work trying to stop me, and you – my children. They would shut up your voices. They would close your assemblies. They would outlaw my Word. They even try to eradicate you from this world. But, you are mine. That will never change, no matter what happens here or how you are treated. Look to me. Accept my help. Your courage and steadfastness come from me. My spirit in you will lead you in all truth and knowledge and discernment and power to stand firm against the evil that has been unleashed in this world. It is moving quickly and seemingly gathering strength. But do not allow them to deceive you. It is all smoke and mirrors. Yes, they have some power now – only what I will allow. But you have the power to resist – to see me, to listen to me, to look to me. Turn from them. Turn from their lies. Turn from their attempts to influence you and your life. They only have as much power as you give them. Can they harm your earthly life and body? Somewhat, yes. But can they harm what is important, what is vital – your eternal life and destiny? No. No. No. They cannot and they know it. So, stand firm. Stand under my wing. Stand under my Word. Stand under my strength and power and protection. You are mine until and unless you give up that position. Only you can change that status. Do not give an inch.