Benescke Janse van Rensburg

On Monday morning, a lot of South Africans dressed in black. Some did it with a heart filled with fear, hate and bitterness. Others because they wanted to take a stand and say, "Enough is enough." And yet others wore black and white to indicate that in their mourning, they still find hope in Jesus Christ.

Daily, 52 people die in our country. This statistic can easily fill us with a paralyzing fear. When will it be you or maybe a loved? What worsens the situation is the knowledge that some of the people who died, also prayed for protection. It causes many to ask: Is prayer really working?

The vast majority of Monday's protest actions began with prayer. It touched my heart to see so many people on their knees before God. It reminded me of God’s words in 2 Chronicles 7:14: “Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.”

Did the prayers across our country and even the world reach God's throne? For sure. We read in Revelation 8 that the angels gather believer’s prayers to bring it before God's throne. And the consequence of a nation that humbles themselves before Him? In 2 Chronicles 7:15 we read God’s words: “My eyes will be open and my ears attentive to every prayer made in this place.”

Why do we worship God? Is it because we are afraid that something may happen to us, or maybe a loved one? Or do we worship Him because we love Him and believe that, in spite of bad things that may cross your paths, He will never leave nor forsake us? This is November month's theme, Fearless because He is alive.

May we together discover who this God is that we serve. May we once again experience His words when He says that His eyes and ears are open to listen to us when we humble ourselves and turn from our wicked ways. Let us live fearlessly, because we know that He is truly alive. God bless.

Father God, thank you for being almighty. I praise and worship you for your greatness. Please help me to keep my eyes on you in the midst of fears. I ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

• See pictures of Black Monday at www.benescke.co.za

• Assignment for the day: Get a pen and paper. Write down your fears and talk to God about it. Ask Him to give you peace in your heart.

• Feedback: What are you afraid of? And what subject would you like me to cover this month? Let me know at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. I would like to hear from you. Benescke