Living in Fear: Post-9/11 America's Growing Anxiety About Violence

Living in Fear: Post-9/11 America's Growing Anxiety About Violence

By Rev. Daniel Matthews, M.Div.

January 31, 2025 at 01:47 AM

Fear and violence are increasingly common in modern America, from the Boston Marathon bombing to mass shootings and terrorist attacks. This troubling trend reflects Biblical prophecies about living in fear when society rejects God's laws.

Woman gazes through window fearfully

Woman gazes through window fearfully

The Bible warned that rejecting God's commandments would lead to fear and uncertainty: "Your life shall hang in doubt before you; you shall fear day and night, and have no assurance of life" (Deuteronomy 28:66-67). This prophecy is being fulfilled as Americans face growing threats of violence.

While many look to solutions like gun control, these measures cannot prevent all forms of violence. The Bible reveals that true security comes through divine protection: "The LORD will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before your face" (Deuteronomy 28:7).

However, this protection requires following God's ways. As Isaiah 59:1-2 explains, sin separates people from God's protection: "Your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidden His face from you."

The solution is developing proper fear - not of violence, but of God Himself. This means having deep respect for His Word and commandments. As 1 John 4:18 teaches, perfect love casts out fear. Following God's laws brings peace of mind: "Great peace have those who love Your law" (Psalm 119:165).

The key message is found in Ecclesiastes 12:13: "Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man's all." Only by returning to God's ways can society overcome the growing culture of fear and violence.

Rather than living in fear of terrorism and violence, we should cultivate proper fear and respect for God through obedience to His commandments. This is the path to true security and peace of mind in troubled times.

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