Evil’s running rampant in the world. In one sense, that’s nothing new. It’s always been the case. But in another, have you noticed how the dial’s been turned up lately? Evil’s not only being promoted but applauded.

It’s hard to miss, isn’t it? The temperature’s rising. It’s as though the flames of hell are licking at our feet. Rampant evil isn’t just the norm – it’s becoming institutionalised. It’s taking over … or so it seems.

So what are we Christ-followers to do? I’ll tell you what I see a lot of them (us?) doing. Fighting back. Yelling and screaming, I’m entitled to my views. I’m entitled to freedom of religion. I’m entitled …

The problem though is that the Bible is virtually silent on what you or I are entitled to in this world. If the truth be known, as I read it – both Old Testament and New – the only thing I seem to be entitled to is to suffer for the name of my Lord Jesus Christ.

So, how? How should you and I respond to the rise of evil?

Isaiah 1:16,17 Wash yourselves and make yourselves clean. Stop doing the evil things I see you do. Stop doing wrong. Learn to do good. Treat people fairly. Punish those who hurt others. Speak up for the widows and orphans. Argue their cases for them in court.

God is commanding us not to behave like those evil people out there, but to clean up our own house first. To do good. To treat people fairly. And then to speak up for those who can’t speak for themselves, no matter what it costs us. For the widow, for the orphan … for the unborn child.

That’s exactly what Jesus did, and it cost Him his life.

Stop doing evil, learn to do good.

That’s God’s Word. Fresh … for you … today.