Nairobi and Finding Peace in Troubling Times

The Westgate Shopping Mall was stormed by 12 to 15 militants this past Saturday. They have killed at least 65 people, including three Kenyan soldiers. Four days later gunfire and explosions are still heard at the complex which conflicts with reports that the building is secure. The Somali Islamist al-Shabab movement said it had carried out the attack in retaliation for Kenyan military operations in Somalia.

Six of the attackers have been killed and it is not known if there are still hostages in the shopping mall, if there are explosives planted in the three story building, or if there are any attackers remaining in the mall.

I listen to the news with interest because I have been to Nairobi, Kenya four years ago and recently, a team of eleven from our community had been at Nairobi’s airport on their way to and from Rwanda. I recall each of the airport security personnel carried a rifle which we are not accustomed to seeing in the United States.

Jesus told His disciples that there is peace in Him while trouble in the world will continue.

John 16:33
  “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Nairobi, Syria, Egypt, Boston, and a Navy yard in Washington, DC all are evidence that we still live in a troubled world. How do you find peace in troubling times?
1.       Bury yourself in Jesus Christ. Have a real and close relationship with Jesus.

2.       Marry yourself to God’s word, the Bible. Read the Bible each day for guidance and truth.

3.       Carry yourself in confidence. The world has troubling events, but your encouragement is to be that Jesus has overcome the world!

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