It is with a heavy heart that I write this as I’ve recently learned about another senseless murder. It makes me think of all the hatred, racism and evilness in the world and wonder why? Why are there homeless, starving people in the world? Why are people hated because of race or religion? It doesn’t make sense in my book. Ultimately my focus shifts to what I can do about it besides shed tears in my bedroom. These are some thing that crossed my mind…

1. Pray: God does not make mistakes, but He does tell me that the devil comes to steal, kill and destroy. I know there is a battle between good and evil so even when I don’t understand why things happen the way they do I have to hold on to my faith in God and continue to pray for this fallen nation.

2. Think less about myself: yes I have my struggles in life but still I am greatly blessed. There are times when I get so overwhelmed or wrapped up in my world that I forget what this life is really about and it’s not me!  It’s easy to do as we live in a world that advocates selfishness and egocentricity. But usually when I raise my head from the fog that is my own little bubble I see that there is a bigger purpose to it all.  My purpose here on earth has little to do with my self-centered desires and more about how God wants me to interact with others. I know we are only here for a short amount of time and can waste no more of it focused on anything that isn’t fulfilling my kingdom purpose.

3. Give where and when I can: Giving doesn’t always necessarily equal money, in fact devoting my time to others can have more of an impact than shelling out a couple of dollars. Volunteering, checking up on someone I know is hurting or sharing a portion of my meal with a person that’s hungry can be just as helpful. God tells me that I am to give light to those who sit in darkness (Luke 1:79) for me this means helping out when I am called. God is light and as children of light it is our job to spread His love and peace to others (1John 1:5 & Thessalonians 5:5).

4. Spread the word: Silence speaks volumes and if we ignore what’s going on or simply turn away because it’s too much to handle we are becoming part of the problem.  For some people speaking out may be as simple as sharing stories on social media and refusing to stop because it makes other uncomfortable.  For others it may be starting a fund, a charity or getting involved politically. Becoming a part of the solution will not look identical for everyone. However you feel moved to move is what you should do. The only way to eliminate darkness is by introducing light. Injustices occur daily and by shedding light on situations it is an attempt to open the eyes of the world to such atrocities and hopefully motivate others to seek justice as well.

5. Don’t let it harden my heart: Sometimes the pressures of this world can try to crush our spirits. It can get to be too much at times but I try to remember and focus on the good. God tells us to fix our thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure and lovely (Philippians 4:8). After the sadness has passed I have to remember my resiliency and know that when the dust clears we will still stand tall.

Be blessed
Court