The events of the last several weeks have reminded us that we live in an increasingly unstable and insecure world. Humanity can become very fearful, very fast. The fact is humans living in fear are apt to produce damaging and dangerous events. I want to encourage all who read this blog particularly Christ followers to practice peace not panic. Our Lord purchased peace for us on the cross, Ephesians 2:13-14, Colossians 1:19-20. The way to overcome panic is to appropriate the peace our Lord offers. Yesterday's morning message was entitled, PANIC OR PEACE? If you would like to listen again or the first time, you may do so at www.libertyfamily.org, Liberty's facebook page or our podcast. The following is some final points given at the end of the message. Hope these help us each to practice Peace and not Panic!

1. BE MINDFUL.

Remember we have always lived in an unstable world but our confidence and trust is only found in the sovereignty of God. God reigns over everything and has predetermined that which is good for all His kingdom. Romans 8:28-32

2. BE PEACEFUL.

For those of you who may be anxious because current events, remember the words of Isaiah 26:3- 4 “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusted in thee. Trust ye in the Lord for ever.”

Live in the facts of the truth of God’s Word. Live in the fullness of the Spirit. Feed yourself less of the worlds wisdom and more of God’s wisdom. Live in peace of God. Colossians 3:15, Philippians 7:7

3. BE CAREFUL.

Watch out for yourself and your families physical health. But don’t fail to care for emotional, mental, and spiritual sides of heath as well. Be discerning that in that in attempting to solve one problem we can create many others. Lead your your family and friends to real solutions that will help. Calmness leads to answers. Panic to additional problems.

4. BE SHAREFUL.

Share truth with others. Share the reason for the hope and peace that is within you. Help other Christians with the truths that are giving you peace and above all else look for divine opportunities to share the gospel. This are difficult days for every citizen on this earth. The Lord is using these events to draw untold numbers of people to Himself. Look around and don’t miss divine your opportunities.

5. BE HELPFUL.

Serve others don’t just serve yourself. When people panic they become self focused and look to take care of themselves and their own. There is wisdom in taking precautions but at the same time believers are called to risk our lives for others. JEUS DID ! Don’t take the last loaf of bread if you really don’t need it. Think of others. Those who live in peace won’t panic and become selfish. They remain calm and make good decisions for themselves and others. Martin Luther stayed in his city while many others left because of the Bubonic Plague. He calmly risked his life for the good of others. Be led of the Spirit of God.

6. BE FAITHFUL.

In times of tremendous danger and difficulties we must remember we are always taking a test and being tempted. Tested by our Lord and tempted by the Satan. Tested to live by faith or by fear. Will we be faithful to the Lord at these times or will we fall to temptation and obey our emotions .

7. BE WATCHFUL.

Luke 21:28 “ When these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh”. II Timothy 3:1-13 tells us that in the Last Days perilous times will come. What we are witnessing could very well be connected to what is to happen on this earth just before the rapture of the church ad the beginning of the Tribulation Period on this earth. We very well could be witnessing “ Birth Pangs” of the earth, Matthew 24:28. Our Lord is gracious and merciful as He warns this world of coming judgement and gives time to run to His mercy found in Jesus. For the unbeliever we pray they will come to the Lord Jesus Christ and for those of us who are already followers of Jesus this should be a time of drawing closer.

8. BE PRAYERFUL.

Pray for ourselves and our families. Pray for your Christian brothers and sisters in your church and around the world. Pray for missionaries who are facing their own unique set of trials because of world events. Pray for our world, national, and local leaders. Pray for the health officials and all who are helping in the medical arenas. Pray for all the caregivers and sick around the world. Pray for the Pastors and other spiritual leaders as to attempt to lead God’s people into the way the Lord would want his people to go. PRAY, PRAY, PRAY!

9. BE GRACEFUL.

In all you do be gracious to others in this hour. Everyone is under stress and heavy burden. As we sprinkle doses of grace along the way it will be refreshing for all who receive actions and attitudes of grace. Slow down, Be kind and considerate of others. Speak words that are positive, truthful and filled with hope. Talk about JESUS.

10. BE GRATEFUL.

What a great time to worship the True and Living God. Praise Him for all He has done, is doing and will do throughout eternity. Jesus never receives the praise He is due. Praise Him in the midst of these days and as the song says “ Things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glorious grace “.



TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS

O soul are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There's light for a look at the Savior
And life more abundant and free
Turn you eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace

Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there
Over us sin no more hath dominion
For more than conquerors we are
And turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace

His word shall not fail you, He promised
Believe Him and all will be well
Then go to a world that is dying
His perfect salvation to tell
And turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace