This week, I was reminded of the evilness of this world. A man in Alabama went on a killing spree, murdering members of his family as well as many others. In Germany, an expelled student went on a rampage, killing 18. In Illinois, a preacher was shot mid-sermon.

Over the past few months, the amount of murders and suicides reported has spiked. Of course, some of this may just be the media's focusing on one subject (abducted children, shark attacks, etc.). However, I think it is more than that. I believe part of it is a disregard for life. It seems that each successive generation cares less about God, and more about this world. They expect instant gratification and seldom think about long-term consequences. But another contributor to these events is desperation. As the economies around the world continue to fall, people get desperate. As jobs are lost, followed by homes, and debt rises, hope also disappears. 

As a Christian, I know that God has promised to take care of us, like the flowers in the fields or the birds in the trees. We may not live in million dollar homes, or drive Porsches or Ferraris, but God will give us what we need. All we have to do is ask in His name, according to His will. We need to take our egos, our pride, our greed, and our selfishness out of the equation and devote our lives to God. If God leads you to it, He will lead you through it.

But, for all of those who do not know God, where does their hope come from? Many have put their faith into the material things of this world. As they rust, rot, or fail, what are these people left with? Even as a Christian, it is hard to turn away from this world. There are so many things vying for our attention. Movies, television, computer, cell phone, clothes, food, music, and other things call to us and appeal to our sinful nature. It is hard to be strong and resist temptation, especially when so many around us do not. But we must remember that such a life is unsatisfying.

The author of Ecclesiases tells us that everything is useless. We may try to surround ourselves with friends or fine foods or the greatest clothing, we may bury ourselves in our work or our good deeds. But, it is all useless. The only thing that matters is our relationship with God. This is a realization that took me a long time to come to. Many people will never come to this realization, and it is sad. It leads to bad decisions and desperation. 

Don't live your life desperate for the things of this world, but instead, live your life desperate for God. Always seek Him more. Always hunger after Him. And then, even the evilness of this world cannot wear you down as you are continually renewed and refreshed by the living water. Remember God loves you.  

If you know someone who is desperate, be brave enough to share Jesus with them.