Paranoia or Peace?

Then Saul’s anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said to him, “You son of a perverse, rebellious woman, do I not know that you have chosen the son of Jesse to your own shame, and to the shame of your mother’s nakedness? For as long as the son of Jesse lives on the earth, neither you nor your kingdom shall be established. Therefore send and bring him to me, for he shall surely die.” Then Jonathan answered Saul his father, “Why should he be put to death? What has he done?” But Saul hurled his spear at him to strike him. So Jonathan knew that his father was determined to put David to death.  1 Sam 20:30-33 NIV

Saul was more than a little paranoid. He was afraid that David wanted him dead. He was unreasonably afraid. David did not want him dead. David did not want his throne. But, Saul was afraid and so his anger consumed his life. 

This morning we hear on the news that there were more than fifty people killed and over two hundred injured by a lone shooter in Las Vegas. What could possibly stir up a person to this kind of anger? I cannot help but think that paranoia had something to do with this kind of tragedy. Paranoia is not only a mental health problem; but, a spiritual problem, as well. It is a serious symptom of not trusting the Lord or His promises to us. 

When we think that others, even the whole world is out to get us, paranoia can set in. Paranoia begets depression. It often also begets anger. It's sets off in us a self-defense mechanism - the really stinking thinking that we have to get them before they get us. That was Saul's thinking as he wallowed in his own paranoia and fear. Paranoia, fear, and anger are to be avoided at all costs. Do not let yourself be consumed by them. We are to live reconciled to God and one another through Christ Jesus. Live life in Christ! Live in the knowledge that nothing in this world can take away your salvation. Nothing can take away your peace; unless you let it. What have we to fear? We have eternal life in the presence of God Almighty. What can be greater than that?

God's Peace be with you all - Pr. J