The Trend of Violence will Continue

“They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good.” 2 Timothy 3:3

In an article titled, “Illinois Runner Assaulted During Group Run” posted by Runner’s World Wednesday, the following was reported: On the evening of Monday, February 13, a 47-year-old woman was running on the Fox River Trail in St. Charles, Illinois when an unidentified man assaulted her.At approximately 6:48 p.m. according to local authorities, someone ran behind her and reached around her shoulder to grab her chest and abdomen. After screaming and fighting to free herself from his grasp, the man escaped across a nearby pedestrian bridge. The woman was running with her running club but was slightly behind them when the man attacked her. While an exact description of the man is unknown, he reportedly stood shorter than average height, was thin, and wore a dark-colored camouflage coat and dark-colored pants. Local police continue to investigate the assault and ask for anyone with information to come forward. 

And you know, as brazen and unprovoked as this attack was, you and I shouldn’t expect the trend of lawlessness to end. Paul was very clear in his letter to Timothy that perilous times were ahead, especially as the day of Jesus’ return grew nearer when people would be increasingly “unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good.” That certainly describes the woman’s attacker doesn’t it? He didn’t even have the restraint to wait for a victim that was alone.  

So don’t let your guard down for even one second my friend. Our enemy, the devil is on the prowl and looking for anyone he can devour. Stay alert. Stay vigilant—and keep running the race and sharing the Gospel so that you might be found faithful and doing good when that trumpet blows. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the Word that serves to prepare us for what’s to come. Lord we ask that You give us the courage to continue preaching the Gospel and doing good despite the dangers so that we will be found faithful upon Your return. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!