THE PSALMIST DAVID WROTE, "Deliver me, O Lord, from the evil man: preserve me from the violent man" (ps. 140:1). Today, thousands of years later—in an era of global concerns about terrorism and urban landscapes that teem with violence—one can especially appreciate the depth of David's heartfelt prayer.
The general assumption is that violence inevitably results from certain kinds of circumstances. For example, someone who has experienced cruel injustice or long-term abuse may turn on others in a violent display of frustration. Or fear may trigger a violent response in another. Someone else who has experienced disrespect or prejudice may feel justified in lashing out at others violently. And others may feel that the only opportunity for good comes from taking it by force—through theft, murder, terrorism, or war. In all these instances, violence is the unthinking, uncaring rage of human will.
But, as David so beautifully realized, we can find true freedom and protection from violence through God's unerring direction and guidance. Listening to and following God's commands, we find the safe paths and sheltered conditions for going about our daily activities. Through an understanding of God's power and grace, we find strength and courage to face down evil and hatred. Through the recognition of our relationship to one another as God's children, we find common ground for reconciliation and compassion. And this can bring comfort and healing to those victimized by violence.
