Once again, the call of “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is Greatest) rang out as a death cry in a major world city. Last week, Islamic terrorists attacked the City of Lights — Paris, France. The terrorists hit six locations almost simultaneously. At least 129 were killed and more than 300 persons wounded. 99 of those are so critical, many of them may die, too. ISIS has claimed responsibility.
Paris went into full lockdown. France’s borders were closed. Its airspace completely restricted. 1,500 French troops were immediately deployed across the city. The mayor of Paris placed the city under its first curfew since World War Two. The president of France called it an “act of war” and declared that France’s response will be “pitiless!” [and] France’s parliament extended the national state of emergency for a full three months. […]
But the Paris attacks weren’t even the most deadly of the last few weeks. That distinction belongs to the Russian airliner that ISIS brought down over Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. 224 people were murdered.
Two years ago, President Obama called ISIS the “junior varsity” of terrorist organizations. Today, it is active in Libya, Egypt, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Yemen, Gaza, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bahrain, Lebanon, Jordan, and the Philippines.
ISIS also has splinter groups and sleeper cells in places like Germany, India, England, France, and the United States. Currently, the FBI has active investigations into ISIS activities in all 50 states.
The Bible warns us that in the last days, evil will increase exponentially.
And with it, danger will increase, too.
But Jesus encouraged His followers, “Do not fear what you are about to suffer.” (Revelation 2:10 NASB)
Paul reminds us that “in all things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37 NKJV)
As we celebrate this Thanksgiving season, I want to share with you why I think it’s more important than ever to understand the power of praise in thanksgiving to God. Our nation faces real and present dangers. Our citizens face challenges we’ve not faced in decades. As I report weekly on “The Hal Lindsey Report,” the threats are mounting and the odds appear to be impossible. But it’s precisely at those moments that the power of praise and gratitude to God can be our pathway to victory.
I pray that you have a Happy Thanksgiving. Remember to take time to reflect on God’s goodness to you, your family and friends, and our beloved nation.
In everything give thanks! (I Thessalonians 5:18)
from The Hal Lindsey Report – November 20, 2015
