I read a disturbing news report via CNN about a 56 year old gunman, Clay Duke. The frustrated husband wasn’t happy after his wife lost her job. And, he was also feeling disgruntled about taxes, as well as the financial hierarchy in America that too often leaves the poor and middle class behind.
So Duke opened fire at a schoolboard meeting in Florida. I watched the video of these horrifying events; the whole incident was caught on camera.
Sadly, the gunman ended up dead after a self-inflicted fatal gunshot to the head. But, before perishing, Duke managed to fire off several shots at point blank range. No doubt, his intent was to kill every person sitting before him. Astoundingly, none of the officials on the platform were hit.
As I sat glued to the video, I thought about how many people are struggling during these tough economic times. Many don’t know how to handle the difficulties they’re faced with. Unfortunately, some resort to violence, suicide, or they slip into a deep depression.
That’s what happens when we put our trust in temporal things. When the storms of life come and shake us, we crumble and succmb to the pressure. We give into bitterness, anger, resentment, and even pity. But, if we build our lives, and remain focused on the Rock, Jesus Christ, He will keep our souls anchored through whatever obstacles and setbacks we face.
No matter what you may be going through today, don’t let your outlook become negative and pessimistic. There may be chaos and negativity all around you, but don’t fret. Run to the Rock of your salvation. One of my favorite passages of scripture is found in Proverbs 18:10. It says, “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe.”
As the song says, “On Christ the solid rock I stand. All other ground is sinking sand…”
TODAY’S PRAYER: Dear God, please help me place my hope and complete confidence in You alone, so that when the storms of life threaten to overwhelm me, I will run to You, the anchor of my soul. Help me to see and understand that it is only through You that I am able to remain steadfast in faith during times of difficulty and struggle. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
