1 John 4:1-6.

A dear friend held a funeral for a gang member. The deceased’s grandmother was a member of the church he pastored. He had never met the young man, but his grandmother had often requested prayer for him. My friend knew the service would be difficult. He prayed for God’s presence and direction.

When he arrived, the chapel parking lot was filled with motorcycles. The chapel was crowded with gang members wearing their colors. The atmosphere was thick and oppressive. My friend looked for the family and found the grandmother. Her head was bowed in prayer. He knew she and others were praying for him.

When the time came, he stood and read the text for his message. As he began the sermon, it seemed to him that a change swept through the room. It felt as if all the doors and windows had been opened. There was a new atmosphere. Preaching came easy. The crowd was quiet and attentive.

Fear is the enemy’s greatest weapon. We need not falter in his presence “because the one who is in [us] is greater than the one who is in the world” (v. 4).

Author: Duane Brush