Terrorism

<<violent extremism>>

This is the unlawful use of violence or threats to intimidate or coerce a civilian population or government, with the goal of furthering political, social, or ideological objectives. Widespread fear and panic is created, especially as innocent civilians are often taken hostage for bargaining purposes or used as a human shield for their despicable acts. The Bible states God hates those who devise wicked schemes and kill innocent people (Ps 11:5; Prov 6:16-19). It also says, "The Lord will not leave the guilty unpunished" (Nah 1:2,3; Heb 10:30).

While not specifically addressing the 21st-century concept of terrorism, the principles of the Bible clearly condemns everything about it. Increasingly aggression and violence is becoming a part of everyday life with usurped power gained through such means. Throughout history, people with

Without God man does evil

unlawful power have used terror tactics to oppress others; it is “Man dominating man to their harm” (Eccl 8:9). God has established the system of government and endued them with authority to protect its citizens and punish those who terrorize and harm them (Rom 13:1-4). This is the responsibility of legitimately established governments, not individual citizens (Rom 12:17,19). As believers, we are to pray for those in positions of authority and those they have tasked to deal with such wicked behaviour so we may that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness (1 Tim 2:1,2).

The Bible counsels, "Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good" (Rom 12:21). Rather than living in fear and being consumed by hatred and a desire for retribution we should respond in the opposite spirit expressing good and compassion. Jesus gave us the example that when He was unjustly treated He committed Himself to God the righteous judge (Heb 12:2,3; 1 Pet 2:23). We are to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute and despitefully us, and show Christian love (Mt 5:44; Lk 6:28; Jn 13:35). Our prayer for the perpetrators is that God will break through their hatred and that the Holy Spirit will soften their hearts and draw them to Himself in salvation for God's grace and love extends to them too (Jn 3:16).

As God’s children we should a voice for calm in an atmosphere of hatred and retaliation, having entrusted our lives into His hands knowing man is only able to take our physical life but not determine the destiny of our spiritual life (Ps 31:5, 37:5; Mt 10:28; 2 Tim 1:12).

Choose God as your protector

Thus, while we are not impervious to Satan’s attacks and the actions of wicked people, those who trust in the Lord need not be afraid (Ps 91:5).