This past week, like many of you, I’ve carried a heavy heart. The news has been filled with tragedy—murders, school shootings, and countless other devastating events, many of which will never make the headlines. These senseless acts of violence leave us sad, heartbroken, frustrated, and even angry.
When faced with so much pain, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and wonder how to process it all. But as I wrestled with these emotions, I was reminded of a timeless truth: we were never promised an easy life on earth. In fact, Scripture tells us clearly that we will face trials and suffering.
Yet even in the midst of this brokenness, there is hope. God is still present, still sovereign, and still faithful.
Living in a Fallen World
We live in a fallen and imperfect world. Sin, suffering, and injustice are part of our human experience. Jesus Himself warned us:
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
This verse is both sobering and comforting. It acknowledges the reality of hardship while also pointing us to the ultimate victory of Christ. When tragedy strikes, it is not a sign that God has abandoned us—it is a reminder of how deeply we need Him.
As the day of His return draws near, Scripture also says the groaning of creation will intensify (Romans 8:22). The weight we feel in times like this is real, but we are not left without hope.
Anchoring Ourselves in Scripture
When the news feels unbearable, we can turn to God’s Word for comfort and perspective. This week, I found solace in Psalm 37.
“Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:1–4)
This psalm is filled with practical wisdom for hard times:
- Do not fret. Worry and fear do not add peace to our hearts.
- Trust in the Lord. He is our anchor when the world feels unsteady.
- Do good. Even in dark times, we are called to be light and love to others.
- Be still. Waiting patiently for the Lord is an act of faith.
These reminders give us permission to release our anger, let go of fear, and choose faith over despair.
The Enemy’s Goal: Fear and Silence
When tragedy strikes, the enemy wants to use it as an opportunity. He wants us consumed by fear, paralyzed by anxiety, and silenced by despair. He wants us to lose hope in God’s goodness.
But the truth is that God equips us with the exact opposite spirit:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
Instead of shrinking back, God calls us to step forward with courage. Evil may be loud, but God’s love is stronger. His Spirit in us gives us the clarity and boldness to keep living out our purpose, even when the world feels overwhelming.
Responding with Love Instead of Fear
So how do we respond to a broken world? By reflecting the heart of Christ. Instead of letting darkness dim our light, we can let it fuel us to:
- Love more fiercely. Check in on friends and neighbors. Speak words of life and encouragement.
- Pray more boldly. For our schools, communities, leaders, and families.
- Shine more brightly. Choose kindness, forgiveness, and compassion in everyday interactions.
Responding with love does not mean ignoring the pain. It means trusting God with justice, while actively living out His call to “overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).
Finding Strength in God’s Presence
Sometimes the most faithful response isn’t doing more—it’s being still. Psalm 37 reminds us to “be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” (v. 7)
In moments of overwhelm, it’s okay to pause. To breathe. To sit quietly in God’s presence. We don’t need all the answers, and we don’t need to carry the burden of the world’s pain on our own shoulders. That’s why Jesus invites us:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Resting in His presence is not weakness—it is strength. It’s an act of surrender that says, “God, I trust You even when I don’t understand.”
Living Out Our Kingdom Purpose
Even in tragedy, God calls us to remember our purpose. He has uniquely placed us where we are, with the people around us, for such a time as this. Your voice matters. Your faith matters. Your presence matters.
Don’t let the chaos of the world silence you. Instead, let it ignite a fire within you to love more deeply and live more boldly for the Kingdom.
Each of us has a role to play in bringing God’s light into dark places. Whether through raising a family, serving in ministry, showing up for a friend, or faithfully praying, God uses our ordinary acts of faithfulness for extraordinary purposes.
A Final Word of Hope
If the brokenness of the world has weighed heavily on your heart, know this: God sees you. He knows the pain, the questions, and the tears. And He promises to be our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1).
Justice will come from Him. Healing will come from Him. Redemption will come from Him.
In the meantime, we walk by faith—choosing love over fear, peace over panic, and hope over despair.
Reflection Question
Where in your life do you need to release fear and choose to trust God more deeply today?
Prayer
Lord, in the face of evil and brokenness, anchor our hearts in You. Help us let go of fear and anger, and instead fill us with Your love and courage. Use us as vessels of hope and light in a hurting world. Amen.
