We’re overwhelmed by talk of violence, hate and incivility. Everyone is crying out "What can we do?" What are YOU willing to do?

For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,

Bible Gateway link: Titus 3:3-5 (ESV)

And yet, we can hold it in our hands and not be burned and not be broken. Through the Bible, God’s word enlightens us and make us whole.

Jeremiah 23:29

Is not my word like fire, declares the Lord, and like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces?

Bible Gateway link: Jeremiah 23:29 (ESV)

Ever notice that no matter what we have, or how right we are, we are never satisfied. That’s because we’re terrible at running our own lives. Know God and let him guide your life. At least He knows what he’s doing.

Jeremiah 9:23-24

Thus says the Lord: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches,

but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.”

Bible Gateway link: Jeremiah 9: 23-24 (ESV)

It all seems like gobbledygook! If that’s how you feel about the Old Testament, there’s hope! I recommend a study that puts the Old Testament, in fact the whole Bible, in perspective. It’s ‘The Epic of Eden” by Sandra L. Richter. It's a study, it's work, it's worth it..

"Epic of Eden" link

Jeremiah 4:2
and if you swear, ‘As the Lord lives,’ in truth, in justice, and in righteousness, then nations shall bless themselves in him, and in him shall they glory.”

Bible Gateway link: Jeremiah 4:2 (ESV)

My heart was so hard after many years of working as a journalist in Washington. Late in my career I found this verse and put it in my top desk drawer to guide me when I was angry and disheartened by all I saw. It helped greatly, but it was also one of the things that spurred me to retire early.

Philippians 4:8-9

Fox News Washington Bureau Chief
Circa 2005

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

Bible Gateway link: Philippians 4:8-9 (ESV)