January 23

But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage. I am here!" - Matthew 14:27

Information like that in today's news can be quite disconcerting until we reflect upon the truth that Almighty God, the Holy One, Jehovah, Jesus Christ is still on His throne.

Although it is imperative that we be vigilant against the incursion of evil into our midst in any of its forms, we must also recognize that "we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against spiritual wickedness in high places," Ephesians 6:12, and we must strive with all our strength and with the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to put the army of the evil one to flight with the love of the Lord.

As we see these things come to pass, we must, as Jesus said, "Look up and lift up your heads (we must not be downcast or discouraged for all these things surely indicate) your redemption draws near," Luke 21:28.