Pastor's Ponderings, October 24, 2016

Worried?  God Has Everything Under Control

The October 21, 2016 edition of the USA Today magazine indicated that “Dyn, a New Hampshire-based company that monitors and routes Internet traffic, was the victim of a massive attack that began at 7:10 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, Friday morning.” The attack focused on major Internet outlets and it intensified our fears that other national institutions are also vulnerable to hacking attacks such on our nuclear launch codes, our utility systems, or our major communication systems.  A particular concern was expressed of the potential impact on our health systems or our military if data is manipulated.

Many of us have become very comfortable with our electronic gadgets and our international infrastructure of data flowing to the cloud, across cable, and from other unknown means.  Sometimes, we would rather not know how personally exposed we are to hacking or identity theft. Moreover, from a national perspective we may worry that the next attacks from those who would like to destroy the U.S. will not be as benign.

In these scary times, it is important to remember that God is in charge of the day and the night and everything else in between (Psalm 24:1, 2).  For those who love the Lord, it is important for us to remember that we are complete in Him who is the ruling authority over everything in heaven and in earth (Colossians 2:9-10).  He has authority over every hacker, every plotting monarch with world dominating ambitions, and every evil schemer who would terrorize us with a plethora of weapons and destructive devices.  We are not to be afraid or troubled by any evil tidings (John 14:1). We should not be worried about the hacking attack on Dyn or any other attacks because God even controls the heart of sovereign rulers (Proverbs 21:1).  Let us continue to worship God, obey Him, keep His commands and He will continue to keep, protect, and love us.  He will be a very present help in the time of trouble (Psalm 46:1).

Psalm 24:1, 2

New International Version (NIV)
1 The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;

2 for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters.

Colossians 2:9-10

Amplified Bible (AMP)

9 For in Him all the fullness of Deity (the Godhead) dwells in bodily form [completely expressing the divine essence of God].
10 And in Him you have been made complete [achieving spiritual stature through Christ], and He is the head over all rule and authority [of every angelic and earthly power].

John 14:1
New International Version (NIV)

14 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.

Proverbs 21:1
New International Version (NIV)

21 In the Lord’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him.

Psalm 46:1
New International Version (NIV)
1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.