Safe by Trusting God

Cardinal de Richelieu became a powerful leader of the Roman Catholic Church in the 17th century, but it was as a politician that he is best remembered. Richelieu became prime minister of France in 1624 and served until 1642, during the reign of King Louis XIII.

Richelieu sought to ensure that the king’s will would be obeyed. Through his actions, he strengthened the king’s power to deal with religious opposition and the independent nobility. He severely punished anyone who opposed the king, even ordering the destruction of all fortresses controlled by the nobility. Many who resisted these efforts were executed or exiled. His ruthlessness helped make France the most powerful country in Europe.

Richelieu once said, “Give me six lines written by the most honorable of men, and I will find an excuse in them to hang him.” Many throughout France realized how true this statement was. He never hesitated to twist someone’s words, if that was to his advantage. He stopped at nothing to intimidate people when he felt it was necessary.

Through time, leaders in every arena have employed the same strategy, ruling through intimidation and fear, and people have been victimized by many kinds of fear. But the Bible gives us the way to be freed from fear of any kind. We simply need to trust in the Lord and place our confidence in Him as our ultimate Judge.

Is there any fear in your life? Fear about world conditions or the economy? Fear about your family or personal relationships? Concerns about your job or finances? Don’t let fear rule your life. Place your trust in the Lord. Remember that He knows the truth. He is Almighty God! You can depend on Him.