In a television interview, a highly successful businessman admitted that he is a troubled person. He said he worries little about himself, but he's afraid something dreadful--such as a nuclear holocaust, a cosmic collision, an environmental disaster, or a plague out of control--may wipe out all life as we know it.

I do not share the fear that a natural or man-made catastrophe will bring about the end of human history. I believe that Jesus Christ will return to this earth. But because no one knows just when this will occur, we have no guarantee that some large-scale catastrophe will not take place. Nuclear weapons are in the hands of many nations. The possibility of an uncontrollable plague is real. And the earth bears evidence of having been damaged by meteorites.

These facts need not disturb us, because like the psalmist we know the Lord and walk in the light of His presence (Ps. 89:15). We can be serene and confident, for we know nothing can happen unless He permits it, and ultimately we will be with Him in heaven. We too can say, "We will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea" (46:2). How wonderful the peace God gives those who trust Him!  — Herbert Vander Lugt