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Theological Reflections on the Terrorist Attack
- We should make sure that our confidence is not in our military, our international intelligence, our preparation, etc., but believe that "God is our refuge and strength" (Psalm 46:1a).
- We should affirm that in real life tragedies such as this, God is not far away, but is in fact, "A very present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1b). Turn to Him, not the television analysts, military leaders, or experts on terrorism, for comfort.
- We should not fear, even though our world has been forever changed by these events. Because God is our refuge and strength, and because He is a very present help in trouble, "Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change" (Psalm 46:2a).
- Regardless of circumstances Christians can always affirm, "The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold" (Psalm 46:7, 11).
- In the midst of the world's anxiety (as well as our own), we should remember that God is God ("Cease striving and know that I am God," Psalm 46:10a). Providence rules over terrorists. God is in control. His foreknowledge and omniscience are not surprised, for He knew of this before the foundation of the world. He is not wringing His almighty hands. He uses Osama Bin Laden, Saddam Hussein, and all terrorists in the same way He used Judas, the Sanhedrin, and Pilate to accomplish His purposes.
- Because our Almighty, Sovereign God says of Himself, "I will be exalted among the nations" (Psalm 46:10b), we should have the faith to pray that the terrorist attacks will result in open doors for the Gospel, not only for us as individuals here, but also among the nations. May nations which close their borders to missionaries more clearly see the contrast between the radical Islam which produced such a vicious attack and the Christian message. And may this evident contrast result in a worldwide decline of Islam and unprecedented opportunities for Christian missions and evangelism.
The North American Mission Board of the SBC has set up a NY-DC Emergency fund.
If you'd like to help, and no means are available through your own church, you may contribute through North Pointe Baptist Church (specify NY-DC on your check), PO BOX 28094, KANSAS CITY, MO 64188-8094,
or give directly at www.namb.net/root/disasterrelief/.
Copyright © 2001 Donald S. Whitney.
Copyright Disclaimer: All the information contained on the Center for Biblical Spirituality website is copyrighted by Donald S. Whitney. Permission granted to copy this material in its complete text only for not-for-profit use (sharing with a friend, church, school, Bible study, etc.) and including all copyright information. No portion of this website may be sold, distributed, published, edited, altered, changed, broadcast, or commercially exploited without the prior written permission from Donald S. Whitney.
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