We live in a fallen world. And, perhaps more to the point, we live in a world at war. On the one hand, we should never allow our hearts to grow numb to the sin and darkness of evil around us. At the same time, it should not surprise us.
Of course, part of our spiritual maturity is remaining sensitive to just how far we are from God’s best. And there’s even a place for righteous anger as we seek to fight the good fight. To be sure, many things are not as they should be in this world, and it’s part of our duty to advance God’s kingdom of light within the realm of our influence. All the same, we should not be surprised when the world hates us and seeks to bring us harm.
We’re told Cain belonged to the evil one and killed his brother because he had been doing what was evil, while his brother had been doing what was righteous. And it’s for this reason John tells us not to be surprised by the hatred and murderous heart of the world.
This is not to pretend it doesn’t matter, or to assume no response is needed on our part. We have an obligation to resist evil, and this often calls for bold and courageous acts of faith. But not being surprised by the attacks of evil allows us to be strategic in our response and not merely reactive.
For instance, a soldier that jumps in surprise at every element of war quickly becomes ineffective. On the other hand, when he keeps a cool head and is not shocked by the basic realities of war, then he’s able to stay focused on his mission and accomplish the job he was enlisted to do.
In the same way, we must keep our wits about us. Being easily offended might take us out long before the actual object of our offense.
In the end, allow your heart to be grieved and deeply moved by the darkness and sin of this world. But don’t be surprised. Keep your wits about you as you fight the good fight.
Photo by Nathan Cowley on Pexels
