Are You Being Bullied?

I read recently that each day an estimated 160,000 students in the USA refuse to go to school because they dread the physical and verbal aggression of their peers. Many more attend school in a chronic state of anxiety and depression. It’s reported that 6out of 10 American youth witness bullying at least once a day. This has become a serious issue that is being addressed by filmmakers, educators, law enforcement, and government officials. While it is definitely a problem with individuals the same is true of countries. As a matter of fact I just returned from touring one of the most bullied countries in the world—Israel. For years this small piece of real-estate has been picked on and has suffered from the threat of brute force almost weekly. Iran, Iraq and others want her people eliminated. Nothing would please them more if her place on the world map ceased to exist at all. However, what these bullies fail to realize is Israel has a Divine Protector. She has the pledge of eternal security at the hand of God. Also, added to their lack of realization is the fact that they themselves are being bullied and manipulated by a clandestine power—Satan. But of greater significance is the reality that this invisible culprit seeks to dominate you and me. He is always pushing, shoving, and vying for position within us. However, we have a protector also because “Greater is He that is within you than he that is in the world.” Students being bullied can appeal to their parents or principle. But Israel and we Christians can appeal to our God. Are you being bullied? Then turn to the One who is a “very present help in times of trouble.”