I've always had a problem with the things people say to victims of evil, pain and suffering. Most things that are said are patronizing, insulting, painful or irrelevant. It would be wonderful if everyone learned to use the same phrases used by employees of funeral homes. For instance "I'm so sorry for your loss".

Episodes of extreme pain, suffering and loss are not opportunities to fix blame. It isn't a time to give personal spiritual instruction.

It is interesting how events like the Virginia Tech massacre, 9-11, and other extreme evidence of evil at destructive work in this life causes people to suddenly wake up and think about God. But, it is a real human response to evil.

I only have one thing to say at this time. God loves you. He is not the author of evil. He has not forgotten you.

There is only one explanation for evil: In order for human beings to have freedom to choose, to be free moral agents, then the possibility of evil exists. The only way to live in paradise is to remove the ability to choose against God's will. Since we have the ability to choose, therefore, the possibility of evil exists in the world.

Does that make the victim of evil responsible for what they experience? Absolutely not!

King David of Israel wrote: I lift up my eyes to the mountains, that is where my strength comes from. My help comes from the Lord Who created heaven and earth.

The answer to evil is not found in the circumstances. It is found in our response to the circumstance. And, if we want to find an answer outside of ourselves and the circumstances, we will have to look to our Creator. He loves you.

I was an Instructor in training for one of the best known positive attitude development programs in the USA. But, the more I was into the program, the more I realized it was just behavior modification. There was no relationship development. We were encouraged to "work the course and let the course do the work". God called me to minister to people, not punch behavioral buttons.

The thing is, there is a core of God's Truth in PMA (positive mental attitude). Jesus is the greatest Teacher of Faith Who ever walked on earth. Most PMA principles come from the Bible, but then attempt to deny the Source. PMA is primarily self help rather than being centered on our Hope, Jesus.

It wasn't just the one program that I participated in. There was another program that I was certified as a facilitator, and I've read many of the books. But, the programs left me empty. I realized that positive thinking without relationship with our Creator was self centered, and eventually would lead a person into setting only earthly priorities rather than Eternal priorities.

So, let me tell you, my friend: There is only one Hope to really overcoming our fears, worries, negativity and limitations. It is based in a relationship with your Creator through Jesus Christ of Nazareth. He has promised that whoever believes in Him will never be ashamed.

I'm not teaching religion here. I'm speaking, and bearing witness, to the reality that only through knowing and following Jesus by His Spirit, can you really come to a place of peace and hope: the real definition of success.

Invite Jesus into your heart and make Him Lord of your life. Study His teachings and do them. Faith It!