Finding Peace During a Crisis - FINDING PEACE IN THE FACE OF DISASTER - Conclusion

 To protect us and restore order, the authorities may ask us to obey a curfew, to evaluate, or to take other practical steps.  Some people are slow to obey or they procrastinate because they want to hold on to the things they own.  How do Christians respond?  The Bible tells  us: "For the Lord's sake subject yourselves to every human creation, whether to a king as being superior or to governors as sent by him." (2 Peter 2:13, 14) God's organization also gives  us direction to keep us safe.  We are regularly reminded to give the elders our current contact information so that they can reach us during an emergency.  Have you done so? We may also receive direction about sheltering  in place, evacuation, and obtaining relief supplies or about how and when to assist others. If we fail  to obey, we could put in jeopardy our life and the lives of the elders.  Remember that these faithful men are keeping watch over us.  (Hebrews 13:17) Margaret commented, "I firmly believe that following direction of the elders and the organization saved my life."

Many brothers and sisters who were displaced by a disaster or by war or civil unrest have done their best to adapt to their now situation and become involved right away in theocratic activities.  Like the early Christians who were scattered by persecution, they continue "declaring the good news of the word." (Acts 8:4) Preaching helps them to focus on the Kingdom rather than on difficult circumstances. As a result, they have maintained their joy and peace.

Next time: Finding Peace During a Crisis - FINDING PEACE WHILE PERSECUTED

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