What to tell your kids about ISIS

In one way or another your children are hearing about the growing threat from ISIS. The attack on Paris is all too real. They will have questions, concerns and fears that need to be addressed. You can be sure that not once in the national media will you hear that the Living God of the Bible be called upon for protection. So what do you tell your children?

First tell them that just because God is not acknowledged by the media and others does not mean that he is powerless. All of these attacks by ISIS are unfolding as God has purposed.  You can also point out that as a country we have begun to act as if God does not care what is written in his word. Our leaders can attempt to tinker with the institution of marriage as they deem it to be politically correct and fashion it to their liking. Elected officials and judges can continue to endorse the killing of children either in or out of the womb.  We continue to appeal to a moment of silence so that gods that are not Gods at all will not be offended.

The truth is that we are a nation that is playing chicken with God.

Praise God that in the end the Ruler of the Universe, Jesus Christ, will do what he has purposed to do – bring honor to his name. This is the message your children need to hear.

The leaders of ISIS have promised to bring the battle to U.S. soil. After Paris, these words carry new weight. We don’t know whether or not the scenes of Paris will be repeated here. What we do know is that God will be faithful to his honor and plan.

This is what you tell your children. If the news commentators offer dramatic scenarios that don’t include the Lord, point this out to your children. You can’t promise them that there will be no terror attacks. You can’t promise them that everyone will be safe. You can promise them that God will be faithful to his people and honor his own name regardless of what happens, just as he was to those in Paris who love him. Pray with your children for strength to trust him as the uncertainty builds. Pray with them that God will cause ISIS to be defeated and that they come to know Christ as their Savior.

Daniel got it right when he told Nebuchadnezzar, at the time probably the most powerful political figure on the planet, that all wisdom and power belongs to God. Nations and leaders serve at his pleasure.  Daniel’s words also are true today.  Encourage your children with the truth that the Holy Spirit gave to Daniel:

“Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever;
    wisdom and power are his.
He changes times and seasons;
    he deposes kings and raises up others.

Then pray with your children and sleep in peace. God is on his throne!

Noah: A Journal of Praise

Shepherd Press