Pastor's Ponderings, March 30, 2015

God Is Our Pilot

On March 24, 2015, the co-pilot of the Germanwings Flight 9525 crashed the plane in the Alps.  This terrible tragedy has prompted sympathetic but confused responses from all over the world.  No one knows why the co-pilot made this decision. Although flying is one of the safest forms of transportation, this tragedy gives one pause.

The Bible, however, gives us a clear perspective when thinking about the dangers in any human endeavor.  The book of Psalms says that we should depend upon the Lord rather than people (Psalm 118:8, Psalm 146:3).  The food that we eat, the medicines that we take, the cars we drive, the safety of our neighborhoods, and our places of employment are all dependent upon people who may decide to hurt us.

We must not be paranoid.  Let us recommit ourselves to trusting the true and living God.  He said we should not fear because He is taking us through terrible places (Proverbs 23:4).  We should not worry about things hurting us (Isaiah 54:17).

Let us decide that even if we or our loved ones pass into eternity through some evil act of man, we must have total confidence that all things are working together for our good (Romans 8:28).  Our God is still in charge of everything.

Psalm 118:8
New International Version (NIV)

8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans.

Psalm 146:3
New International Version (NIV)

3 Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save.

Psalm 23:4
New International Version (NIV)

4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Isaiah 54:17
New International Version (NIV)

17 no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the Lord.

Romans 8:28
New International Version (NIV)

28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.