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When we read or hear about all the atrocities in the world it would be easy to fall into the hate trap – to blame everyone who is different from us..

When we read or hear about all the atrocities in the world it would be easy to fall into the hate trap – to blame everyone who is different from us. No matter how much we disagree with the religious persuasion of the alleged perpetrators of these evil acts, we can no more blame individuals of the same religion than we can blame all Christians for the acts of the Crusaders of days gone by or the terrorism in Northern Ireland.

I personally know may people who are followers of the Islamic religion who are as horrified by these events as any of us – these people are not to blame. But, more importantly still, these people are not our enemy. The Devil is the enemy.

He is the one responsible for the evil in the world. Men have choices and very often they make the wrong ones. The men involved in these acts of barbarism have made wrong choices.

Yet, can we not see that they are totally deceived? No human beings could commit such violence against innocent men, women and children in such a way without being deceived and out of their right minds. This is not rational thinking for people who know God. This is a lie perpetuated by satan himself to wage war against God.

Our prayers should not only be for those families who have lost loved ones, but for our leaders that they might make wise choices. Pray, as we are admonished in 1 Timothy 2:1-2, for our leaders, those who are in authority and have the power to make choices that could change our lives forever.

Pray for wisdom and strength for them and, as you do, set an example of tolerance and love to those around us.  Remember that people who choose to live in England are choosing the benefits of our western way of life, too! Be peacemakers, even while all around may be warmongering.

Be lovers of people, just as Jesus is.