From the Elder's Pen  "Afraid Of Whom?" 1/13/02 Past/Future Articles

Since the destruction of the World Trade Towers, we have become acutely aware that our demise is possible.  It seems that much of the people have been consumed with fear of Osma Bin Laden and what terrorist can do to them.  The name Bin Laden has suddenly become synonymous with terror and known on many tongues.  Patriotism abounds.  Respect for God and country has flourished- the likes I have not seen since WWII.  Fear has been put in the hearts of men.  Should we be so fearful that our earthly abode might end?  Let us examine the age old question, “Of whom shall I fear, of whom shall I be afraid?
     Man has been at war with satan since the beginning of time.  We are told in Matt. 10:28 to,  “Fear not them who are able to kill the body, but Him who is able to destroy both body and soul in hell.”  Here we learn there are two deaths.  One of the physical man (body), the other of the spiritual man (soul).  One of which we are not to fear and the other we had better be afraid.  However, as usual, man turns it around and gives very little thought to the One who can destroy his soul and body in torment, but spends his life on earth fearful of what men might do to him.
     We must die the physical death, but it is our decision whether we die the death of fire or not.  No matter how long or how hard this life is, it is only for a short time and will end; therefore, the life to be lived eternally is the one to be concerned about.  There was a man named Moses who realized this fact.  He could have had the wealth of Egypt, but knowing it would only be for a short time gave it up to serve God’s people for a season because he, like Abraham, longed to go to that city whose builder and maker is God.  (Heb. 11:10; II Cor. 5:1)
     Yes, dear brethren, let us not be concerned about the temporal things of this life that will one day pass away, but let us through the eye of faith look to the place where life’s “little day” will be over and time shall be no more.  And at all cost let us avoid the place God has prepared for the devil and all who love his ways and follow him.  It is our choice, our decision where we will spend eternity.  We can blame no one but ourselves if we miss heaven.  ARE YOU MAKING READY TO MEET GOD??  For as sure as you have been born you will die physically.  Make preparation that it will not be your soul that will be destroyed next.  Obey the gospel, fight the spiritual warfare (Eph. 6:11-18) and make heaven your home.