C.S. Lewis once described God as a “tragic redeemer.” By this he meant that God takes even the worst tragedies of human life and turns them toward redemption. He works good out of what was meant for harm. The cross itself is the ultimate example: humanity’s rejection of Jesus became the very means of salvation for the world.

That same principle is at work in our world today. Evil does not have the final word. But if we are honest, evil is everywhere, and it often feels overwhelming.

Evil Is Always Spiritual

When we look at headlines filled with corruption, violence, and hatred, it’s easy to think these are merely political or cultural problems. But Scripture reminds us that the root is deeper. Ephesians 6:12 says: “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

That means every form of evil—whether personal, social, or political—is ultimately spiritual. Laws and policies may restrain evil, but they cannot cure it. Only a spiritual awakening can truly transform hearts and, through changed hearts, change a nation.

Political Violence and Hatred

This spotlights political violence as evil. It doesn’t matter which side it comes from—left or right—it is still an expression of darkness. The same is true of hatred. When we give in to hatred, we allow evil to reproduce itself in us.

God’s people are called to something different. The apostle Paul urged us to “put on the full armor of God” so that we can stand against evil (without becoming part of it). Our weapons are truth, righteousness, faith, prayer, and the Word of God—not violence or venom.

Learning to Rest in the Lord

Psalm 37 gives us a posture for living in an age of conflict. It opens with the words: “Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of those who do wrong; for they will soon fade like the grass and wither like the green herb. Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.”

This whole chapter is a powerful encouragement when we are tempted to despair. It reminds us not to be consumed with fear or envy. Instead, we are called to commit our way to the Lord, trust Him, and wait patiently. The Psalmist assures us that the wicked will not prosper forever and that God will uphold the righteous. It is this Psalm that brought me into real relationship with Jesus as an adolescent.

Apparently written while David was on the run from Saul, his words stand in stark contrast to the fever pitch of today’s politics. While anger and fear drive people to extremes, the people of God are called to quiet trust, consistent goodness, and hope in God’s justice.

Youth and Renewal

There is a new surge of conservative politics among young people. On many fronts, this is encouraging—it shows a hunger for meaning, stability, and truth. But politics alone is not enough. A resurgence of Christianity is what we desperately need.

If this generation only recovers conservative ideas but misses Christ, the deeper sickness remains untouched. But if young people turn to Jesus, we may see not only cultural renewal but spiritual revival—a work of God that brings lasting change.

The Call to Stand

God is still a tragic redeemer. He is still bringing good out of evil, light out of darkness, and hope out of despair. But He calls His people to stand—not in hatred or violence—but clothed in His armor, confident in His promises, and resting in His justice.

It is actually a call to intercession. After eight decades I’ve still not figured out why prayer works or why it is necessary if God knows our needs before we ask. But it does change the world. God does answer. We must learn to intercede, not just for those in authority but for a rising generation spoon-fed dark lies about our nation and its founders and a “science” intended to bury God. Our hope is in Jesus in young people as it is always a rising generation that foments spiritual awakening.

It’s happened five times in the history of our nation. The culture was on the brink of ruin when Jesus came to the rescue. Let’s call for a sixth awakening.

The turning point for our nation will not come through elections or rallies. It will come through prayer, repentance, and awakening. It will come when we trust the words of Psalm 37 and live as people who know that God redeems even in tragedy.

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)

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