“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
On this date in 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Their intention was to cripple the U.S. Pacific Fleet to the point that it would not be able to respond to their aggression. This strategy backfired, however, prompting the United States to declare war upon Japan the very next day, thus proving Admiral Yamamoto right when he warned, "I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve."
From Paris to San Bernardino, evil continues to launch horrific attacks throughout the world. This really should come as no surprise since Jesus warned us that the enemy’s goal is "to steal, kill and destroy." Yet, the good news is that God’s intention is for us to have life abundantly. (John 10:10) The choice is ours as to whom we will submit to, but we must take responsibility. “'Awake, sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.' Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil." (Ephesians 5:14-16)
Over the past few years, I have been praying Paul’s prayer for us in Ephesians 1:18-19, “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.” The enemy seeks to destroy us, but my hope is that his attacks will instead awaken us to the hope of God’s calling!
For the United States, World War II began with tragedy - including the loss of 1,177 men on the USS Arizona - and concluded with the unconditional surrender of the Japanese on the deck of the USS Missouri. The memorial of the sunken USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor is now accompanied by the USS Missouri docked behind it signifying tragedy transformed to triumph. So can our lives be when submitted to our Mighty God.
