Without embracing the truth of these verses, it is possible to fall into deep despair as we gaze out onto the world today. Even here in the UK there’s violence and hate right on our doorsteps but when we imagine the danger and despair in other places, it seems that violent death or impossible living conditions are the norm for so many.

Here is the good news: He keeps us. He is the ‘Keeping God’, keeping you and also the blessings and salvation that He bought on the Cross right there for you, ready for use.

HE keeps us. Thank Him now and receive His Peace.

Once we entrust ourselves to that safekeeping, we can encourage, pray, wrestle and grieve for the world without becoming afraid and disillusioned because of war, injustice, the twists and turns of powerful lunatics who think they can run the world.  All of it outside His Keeping is spoiled and fading but people still need to be told the Good News.

Let me URGE you to read the news, critically, curiously; to know what’s going on so you can pray into it, all of it!  Some might want to pretend it isn’t happening.  I urge you to recognise the birth pangs and live as those who know that whatever befall, HE has us; He has bought us. ‘’He will keep you til the river rolls its waters at your feet!” * so keep going! It’s there, kept in Heaven for you.

The truth of these verses enables us to be like David Wilkerson, Jim Elliot or Jackie Pullinger! Christians across the globe who choose to stand up and often die doing what is right, not what is safe. Stand firm, friends, and pray.

***

Prayer:

Unsettle me, LORD, I want to be a HERO of the faith.  I am not stepping out without a parachute, as if there were no Everlasting Arms beneath. I want to choose to be bold and strong, confident of the truth of these verses. Amen.

Application:

Listen to *Francis Rowley ‘ I will sing the Wondrous story’