As Christians, we are called to be in the world but not of the world (John 17:14-16). Despite all the negativity around us, God commands us to be hopeful, joyful, peaceful, patient, kind, good, gentle, faithful and self-controlled (Galatians 5:22-23). This is only possible through the power of the Holy Spirit working within us.
First, we must remember that the primary source of negativity is the sinful human heart (Jeremiah 17:9). Ever since the fall in Genesis 3, all humans have inherited a sin nature that naturally tends towards selfishness, anger, jealousy and other sins. The news headlines simply reveal the outworking of sinful human hearts and minds.
Second, we should avoid fixating on all the bad news. Philippians 4:8 instructs us to dwell on whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable and praiseworthy. We should be informed about current events but not obsessed. Too much news consumption can lead to anxiety, outrage fatigue and even depression.
Third, we must entrust justice and final judgment to God alone. Deuteronomy 32:35 declares “…Vengeance is mine, and recompense, for the time when their foot shall slip; for the day of their calamity is at hand, and their doom comes swiftly.” As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” God’s justice may not be fully manifested in this lifetime but it will come one day.
Fourth, we can channel our concerns into prayer. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 exhorts that “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” Through prayer, we entrust world leaders and situations to God.
Fifth, we overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21 states, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” This could mean donating to charities that help the poor and needy, supporting victims of injustice, volunteering in the community, comforting those who mourn or simply blessing others through random acts of kindness.
Sixth, we can share the hope and joy we have in Christ with others. 1 Peter 3:15 encourages us to “always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.” Our lives should point towards the light of Christ amidst all the darkness around us.
Seventh, we focus on what we can control – our own thoughts, words and actions. Attempting to control or fix everything going on in the world will only lead to frustration and despair. But we can control how we choose to think, speak and act each day in a godly manner.
Eighth, we take refuge in the sovereignty and love of God. Despite how chaotic and depressing the world may seem, we can rest assured that God remains fully in control (Isaiah 14:24). And we know that for those who love God, even the worst tragedies can be redeemed for good in His grand plan (Romans 8:28).
Ninth, we look beyond the troubles of this world to the hope of heaven. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 declares, “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” Any suffering we endure on earth is but temporary compared to the eternal paradise that awaits all believers.
Tenth, we cling tightly to the Word of God which serves as a lamp unto our feet amidst the darkness around us (Psalm 119:105). Immersing our minds in the truths of Scripture protects us against deception, equips us for every good work, and renews our minds to be more Christ-like (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Lastly, we must remember that our real enemy is not flesh and blood but the invisible forces of darkness like Satan and his demons (Ephesians 6:12). The battle ultimately is not physical or political but spiritual in nature. Therefore, we need to put on the full armor of God including truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer (Ephesians 6:13-18).
In summary, Christians can respond to all the negativity out there by remembering the sinful roots of evil, avoiding obsessive news consumption, entrusting justice and judgment to God, channeling concerns into prayer, overcoming evil with good, sharing the light of Christ within us, focusing on what we can control, finding refuge in God’s sovereignty and love, looking to the hope of heaven, immersing ourselves in God’s Word, and recognizing this is ultimately a spiritual battle requiring spiritual armor.
By clinging to Jesus Christ amidst the storms of life, we can be the light of the world and salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13-16), bringing hope and joy to others. Though darkness and evil abound, the light of Christ shining in and through us will overcome it. God promises to work all things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Therefore, we can have joyful confidence and peace even in the darkest of times, keeping our minds stayed on Jesus (Isaiah 26:3).
The Bible repeatedly tells us not to worry but to trust in the Lord (Psalm 37:3, Proverbs 3:5-6, Matthew 6:25-34, Philippians 4:6-7). God is our rock, fortress and deliverer in whom we can take refuge (Psalm 18:2). He is sovereign over every earthly authority and will have the final say (Daniel 2:21). The Lord Himself watches over us and shields us from all harm (Psalm 121:5-8). If God is for us, who can stand against us (Romans 8:31)?
There are so many encouraging verses on this topic. Here are just a few more:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
“Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.” (Psalm 55:22)
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)
“Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
“The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1)
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
In this world we will face trials and troubles, but Jesus has overcome the world (John 16:33)! We can take heart because He has promised to never leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). Through faith in Christ, we have eternal life and will experience ultimate joy in His presence forevermore. Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus!
