But of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

The recent shooting rampage most recently occurring with a burst into a Detroit Police Precinct, and previously by an attack on Congressman Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson, Arizona, belies and reveals an inescapable truth: We are out of control. They were attacks that defy explanation and appear to be without palpable reason. They were most certainly insane attacks driven by fear, without love and without the Spirit of God.

But what about our spirits? What type of spirit do we possess? What insane acts are we capable of? Are we capable of hurting those we love? Do we use malicious words when we speak? Do we speak in an angry tone? Would someone be surprised if they learned we were Christians?

Paul has declared to Timothy that the true child of God is distinguished by the fruits of the Spirit of God: love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness and faith…Galatians 5.22. As a consequence, we are unafraid because God is with us. God has given us His Holy Spirit. We act with confidence, kindness and contemplation, because “…Greater is He that is in us, than he that is in the world”. I John 4.4. Thank you, Lord Jesus. Thank you, Holy Spirit.