Article August 1, 2005 Issue

'NO WEAPON THAT IS FORMED AGAINST THEE SHALL PROSPER'

THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE MONITOR

REPORTS YESTERDAY [July 7] of terrorist bombings in London turn many immediately to prayer and open people's hearts in compassion to everyone there. As I turned in prayer myself, this strong declaration from the book of Isaiah came immediately to thought: "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper" (54:17).

Terrorists believe that people will cower before evil, but in both the short and long term, there is evidence of the fruitlessness of such actions. When I think back to my own experience in New York City, I am all too often reminded of the destruction and loss of life, but when that tries to settle into my thought, it is overwhelmed by the stronger memories of the compassion and strength, the sacrifice and humanity, that filled the city during those difficult days and months after 9/11.

The Apostle Paul urges that we "be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good" (Rom. 12:21). It sounds like good counsel, but the question is, How? How does one overcome evil with good? The first step that Paul gives is clear. Be not overcome. Don't be mesmerized by the reports of the attack; don't become engulfed with anger. Don't let despair or helplessness take over.

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