In a world that often feels increasingly hostile, especially toward Jews and Christians, it’s easy to grow weary. Recent events—the tragic antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney during Hanukkah celebrations, ongoing violence against Christian communities in places like Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo, rising incidents of harassment and vandalism worldwide—remind us that evil is active and bold. Yet, in the face of such darkness, God’s Word offers timeless encouragement.
Psalm 37:1-13 in the New Living Translation speaks directly to this moment:
Don’t worry about the wicked or envy those who do wrong. For like grass, they soon fade away. Like spring flowers, they soon wither.
Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.
Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.
Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper, it only leads to harm. For the wicked will be destroyed, but those who trust in the Lord will possess the land.
Soon the wicked will disappear. Though you look for them, they will be gone. The lowly will possess the land and will live in peace and prosperity.
The wicked plot against the godly; they snarl at them in defiance. But the Lord just laughs, for he sees their day of judgment coming.
David reminds us: The schemes of the wicked may rage now, but they are temporary. God sees it all, and He has a plan. Regardless of the attacks on God’s people—whether Jews facing resurgent antisemitism or Christians enduring persecution—do not lose heart. Trust in Him, commit your ways to Him, and rest in His ultimate justice.
Here are some practical ways to live out this truth today:
- Do not back down in speaking the truth of the Gospel. The enemy wants to silence believers, but we are called to proclaim Christ boldly. As the wicked “plot against the godly,” stand firm in sharing the hope we have.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your faith—train yourself. Apologetics isn’t just for scholars; it’s for every believer (1 Peter 3:15). Equip yourself with reasons for your hope so you can respond wisely and graciously to skeptics or opponents.
- Remember, Jesus said we are the light of the world—even in the political realm. We shine brightest when we engage culture with truth and love, including politics. Don’t withdraw; let your light expose darkness and point to Christ’s kingdom.
- Don’t give in to online rage bait. Be aware of the issues—antisemitism, persecution, cultural shifts—but don’t let inflammatory posts stir fear or anger in you. Stop being angry; it only leads to harm. Scroll wisely and respond with peace.
- Pray for all that is going on in the world, especially for those led astray. Intercede for victims of violence, but also for perpetrators and those deceived by false religions or dangerous belief systems. Pray for eyes to be opened to the truth of Christ.
- Be at peace. The Lord laughs at the plots of the wicked because He knows their end. Wait patiently for Him to act. Delight in Him, and find your heart’s desires fulfilled in His presence.
Brothers and sisters, the grass withers, the flowers fade—but the Word of our God stands forever. God has a plan, and it includes victory for His people. Do not fret. Trust, do good, and watch Him work.