As Christians in a hostile world, it’s easy to feel like we’re caught between offense and defense. ⚔️🛡️

On the one hand, we are called to defend our faith by confessing who Christ is and what he has done. ✝️

But our true hope is in Jesus, the roaring lion 🦁, who has conquered sin, death, and the devil, and who doesn’t really need us to defend him.

Whether or not the world looks safe, we have strength, safety, and shelter in Christ, our mighty fortress. 🏰

This world is passing, but we have the hope of the resurrection. 🌅

It’s helpful to put all things in perspective — everything's going to burn in the end, as Peter tells us. (2 Peter 3:10) 🔥

Yes, this life is the vale of tears 😢, but it’s just for a moment. We have hope of Christ — that he is coming again. 🙌

We already have one foot in the resurrection, which means we have certainty that we're with Christ and Christ is with us. ✨

The world may not be safe, but it is redeemed. 🌎✨

We don’t need safety to be secure because we are already secure in the resurrection. 🕊️

What should we do as we face a hostile world? 🌏

We should be busy among God's work and in our vocations, knowing we are cared for as we seek the kingdom of God, embrace His forgiveness, and receive the grace of Christ. 🙏

We will die, but even that's okay knowing we will be resurrected from the dead and given a brand new heaven and earth — this is a great comfort. 🌈

So even when life feels uncertain — at school, in politics, or just in everyday challenges — our answer stays the same — look to Jesus. 👀✝️

Like he said: “Abide in me.” 🌿

Contributor Matt Richard is Pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Minot, ND.

Contributor Rev. Harrison Goodman is the Higher Things Content Executive.

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