In light of recent tragic events, including the assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University and other acts of violence across our nation, many Christians are struggling to process what’s happening and how to respond. These events, coupled with the 24th anniversary of 9/11, have left many feeling that our freedoms and way of life are under attack.
Acknowledging the Darkness of Our Times
We can no longer deny that we live in dark and evil times. From targeted violence against Christians to increasing lawlessness in our cities, the evidence is clear. The cultural shift away from Christian values and the growing hostility toward people of faith is becoming more blatant.
This isn’t about politics—it’s about recognizing reality. When violence is celebrated rather than mourned, when law and authority are disregarded, and when Christians are specifically targeted, we must acknowledge the darkness that surrounds us.
How Do Christians Find Hope in Uncertain Times?
As believers, we need to be “wise as serpents but gentle as doves” (Matthew 10:16). Here’s how we can find lasting hope while navigating these challenging times:
Believe in Something Bigger Than Ourselves
Our hope must be rooted in Jesus Christ and the promise of eternity. Isaiah describes a future where perfect peace will reign—where predators and prey will lie down together, and children will be safe from harm. This vision of God’s kingdom gives us perspective beyond our current circumstances.
Recognize God’s Sovereignty
While this raises questions about why God allows suffering, we must understand that God has given humanity free will, and we’re experiencing the consequences of sin in our world. This isn’t God’s fault, but rather the result of human choices.
Let Go of Utopian Thinking
Christianity doesn’t promise a perfect life on earth. We need to abandon the idea that everything will be “hunky-dory” if we just follow Jesus, speak kindly, and think positively. Scripture never supports this view.
Instead, we must recognize that we’re in a spiritual war. Satan is actively working against the church and God’s people. This requires us to develop a soldier’s mentality rather than expecting earthly perfection.
What Does Paul Teach Us About Living in Difficult Times?
In his letter to the Colossians, Paul provides powerful guidance for believers facing challenges. In chapter 3, he instructs Christians to “put on” certain qualities:
Put on Peace
Often, we want peace to come from our circumstances. But God teaches that true peace comes from Jesus Christ working in our hearts. We can experience peace amid chaos because Jesus places it there. As Paul told the Philippians, God gives us “peace that passes all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).
Put on Love and Joy
Romans 5:5 tells us that “the Holy Spirit fills us with the love of Jesus Christ.” The joy and peace we experience come from the assurance of our salvation. These qualities are available to us, but we often remove them and replace them with fear and anxiety when we focus on worldly troubles.
Put on Forgiveness
Colossians 3:12-13 reminds us that since Christ has forgiven us, we must forgive others. This is particularly challenging when we’re mourning losses and seeking answers to senseless violence. Yet forgiveness is essential for our spiritual health and witness.
1 John 1:9 assures us that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.” If Jesus continually forgives us, we must extend that same grace to others, even in the most difficult circumstances.
Moving from Passive Spectators to Active Participants
Finding hope also means taking action. The church must step up collectively rather than waiting for a single voice to lead:
Speak About Your Faith
We can and should openly share our faith. There’s no law against this, despite what some might suggest. Many people are lost, hurting, and searching for solutions—and Jesus is the only true solution.
Stand Against Evil
Christians should speak out against wickedness in our society. We need to protect the vulnerable—children, women, and those who cannot defend themselves. This isn’t about “social justice” but about standing for righteousness and opposing sin.
Support One Another
The Christian community must stand together and support each other. We can no longer afford to be passive spectators in our culture. When we become active participants, advocating for our faith and values, God ignites a fire in our hearts and uses us for His purposes.
Life Application
The example of Charlie Kirk—regardless of your political views—shows a Christian who stood firmly for his beliefs and faith in Jesus Christ. His values were driven by his relationship with Christ, and now he stands in glory before his Savior.
This week, consider these questions:
- Am I putting my hope in temporary circumstances or in Jesus Christ?
- Have I “put on” peace, love, joy, and forgiveness, or am I wearing fear and anxiety instead?
- In what ways have I been a passive spectator rather than an active participant in standing for truth?
- How can I use my voice to protect the vulnerable and speak about my faith this week?
It’s time to stop being passive, silent Christians. Let’s find our hope in Jesus Christ and in how He wants to use us. We are called to stand up and make our voices heard, not out of hatred or fear, but out of love for God and our neighbors.
Chuck Musselwhite 
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