Be Comforted – Evil is Not Winning
If you read or watch the news, especially recently, you will likely learn of some very disturbing events. What is even more disturbing is that what you have read or viewed at any given moment may not reflect everything that has occurred or is occurring within the world. When viewing or reading certain news stories, and especially if hearing bad news repeatedly, it may appear as though evil is running rampant, but rest assured that good will always win.
My Personal Decision to Reduce My Intake of News
I love staying current regarding what is going on in my community, as well as learning of what is occurring within the nation and within the world. Hence, I once frequently visited various news sites throughout the day while reading the latest stories. I personally felt as though those catch ups were necessary, but importantly, I felt that by doing this, it would give me a better idea of what I should pray about. Over the last year, I intentionally and gradually limited my daily intake of news. Reducing my news intake was not necessarily the easiest task for me, especially considering what I previously mentioned regarding how viewing the news would often help guide me in prayer. Furthermore, consider that I have a degree in communication, that I studied media literacy, and that I am a continual learner, not only in my field of pharmacy, but also in the field of communication. So, for me, staying abreast of trending news, while also self-studying how stories are being prioritized and framed by news sources and journalists is important to me. Despite everything I just mentioned, however, I felt that if I redirected some of the time I spent on news sites to just simply praying as led by the Holy Spirit, reading my Bible, and engaging in other activities, then, this would prove beneficial.
What Do the Scriptures Say about Avoiding Evil?
Let’s begin here. Throughout the Bible, we are urged to avoid evil. Some may say the instruction to avoid evil is stated implicitly in numerous Scriptures. However, avoiding or departing from evil or wickedness is explicitly stated in Proverbs 4:14, Psalm 34:14, and 1 Thessalonians 5:22, as well as several other Biblical verses. Also, in John 14:15, Jesus makes it clear that if we love Him, if we truly love Him, then we should be obedient to His commandments. Of note, it should be understood that we are human, that everyone has made mistakes, and that the Lord is a forgiving God, as stated in 1 John 1:9. However, we should have an ongoing desire to do what is right…just because we love the Lord.
What Does the Bible Say about Good Prevailing Over Evil?
Good news – good has already won. Read 1 Corinthians 15:57, and you will see that good won a long time ago. However, an expectation for us to remain spiritually alert and active is evident in Ephesians 6:10-18. This passage emphasizes the impact of faith, prayer, the Word of God, et cetera, and serves as an excellent reminder that deceit, wickedness, and just any and every form of evil has no power over us when we choose to dress in the armor of God.
God is Greater
The “not-so-good” may occur. Things may happen that even the most righteous will deem unfair. It may seem as though justice is not being served, and disturbingly, at times, it may appear the ones who are willfully inflicting physical, mental/emotional, and/or spiritual harm on the innocent are the very ones being tolerated. However, we must trust that we serve a just God who can make anything happen at any time. The Lord is our deliverer and because of Christ, we already have the victory.
I urge you to continue doing what you know is right. I also encourage you to constantly remind yourself of your blessings, to read and study your Bible, and to actively search for and share uplifting news stories. Finally, and importantly, keep in mind that nothing or no one is greater than God.
(Remember, God is good, and good has already won.)
1 Thessalonians 5:22 (KJV) – “Abstain from all appearance of evil.”
Temeka Borden, Pharm.D., M.A., B.S., RPh
Feel free to read my bio and company description: About — Positivity Inspires.
Disclaimer: The content within this article should not be interpreted as medical advice or any other type of professional advice (not even a single statement). Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding any healthcare needs, including any mental health services.
Images displayed are obtained from Pexels or Pixabay via the Text Art app. Please also note that some Scriptures mentioned within this article were located via a Google search.