I awoke today to the news of a mass shooting in Las Vegas. I am unaware of the intentions or grievances of the shooter but one thing is for certain: this was an evil act. It seems as though evil acts are on the rise in our world. News continues to break every day of evil atrocities done by one person to another. In the wake of such events it is easy to believe that this is simply the world we live in. You must get used to it and that there is nothing you can do about it.

The Word reminds us that we are not supposed to succumb to the evil around us nor ignore it like it does not exist. Romans 12:21 says, “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” It is easy to be overcome with evil. The closer that evil strikes your home the easier it is to fall prey to its intentions and devices. Evil hopes to intimidate you, marginalize you, and destroy the purpose that God has for you.

Believers seem to have become experts in fleeing evil, avoiding evil, and shunning evil. However, we have forgotten the admonishment to overcome evil. Each time you see evil on display there should be a greater display of God’s love, grace, and compassion that rises from the church of Jesus Christ. The world has witnessed this response when tragedy occurs through natural events like hurricanes, tropical storms, and tsunamis. Let the world also see the goodness of God through your personal response to evil.

Today’s’ Challenge: Pray for those involved in the shooting. Pray for wisdom for those governing authorities who are responding to the crisis and taking needed action to protect our people in the future. Realize that you are not simply a prisoner or victim to the evil around you. Allow your response to evil be this: Romans 12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.