On September 11, 2001 Islamic extremists slammed hijacked jets into the Pentagon and World Trade Center Towers as they shouted the words, "Allahu Akbar”, (God is Great). This cry preceded the most horrible terrorist attack on our land and the mass murder of over 3000 people. The FBI released a handwritten hijackers' letter found in three separate copies—at Dulles, at the Pennsylvania crash site, and in Mohamed Atta's suitcase. It included a checklist of final reminders for the 9/11 hijackers. An excerpt reads: "When the confrontation begins, strike like champions who do not want to go back to this world. Shout, 'Allahu Akbar,' because this strikes fear in the hearts of the non-believers." This phrase is recited by Muslims in many different situations. For example, when they are very happy, to express approval, to praise a speaker, as a battle cry, and during times of extreme stress. In the Islamic world, instead of applause, often someone will shout ‘takbir’ and the crowd will respond "Allahu Akbar" in chorus. However, these Islamic extremists used the phrase as a terrorist battle cry. This set them apart from anything Godly or great. Murdering over 3000 people is not Godly or great.
As we acknowledge the memory of those who were murdered by these terrorists nine years ago I am reminded that there is still much confusion and anger in our nation. People condem one another and divide over religious differences. Confusion, violence and division over religious experiences have been with us since Eden. The first murder recorded on earth was over a difference in worship when Cain killed his brother Able. The battle between and within religions and denominations to determine who speaks for God has a long history.
“God told me...” is a phrase that is frequently heard to verify something. “I feel led...” or “I have been praying and I have a peace about...” are also popular phrases to validate a word or action. All too often these phrases mean, “This is how I want to obtain MY mandate”. I like to tease and ask “What did His voice sound like when He told you? Did He have an English accent or deep voice?” or “Is ‘felling led’ similar to the sensation you feel when you bite into a peppermint patty?” Call me a skeptic but when anyone claims a direct or exclusive word from God as if they just got off the phone with Him, I worry. I am also not always impressed when “having peace” about doing something is declared. Even a two-year old has peace when they get their own way. The truth and peace of God is affirmed by scripture, prayer, circumstances and the church, not simply the whim or feeling of a single individual or group.
God does speak and lead. However, I am cautious when ‘His leadership’ is used for a personal agenda, idea or desire. God’s leading should never be used lightly or to promote a political or personal agenda, idea or desire. Too many have been turned away from Jesus due to the poor witness of a church or a person who claimed or misused the name of Christ but did not display His love or Spirit in their daily life.
So, how does one know what God is saying or to whom God is speaking or leading? Who does speak for God? You see, God still speaks quite nicely and clearly for Himself through His Word, the Bible. Henry Blackaby said it well in his book,'Experiencing God'; “God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the Bible, prayer, circumstances, and the church to reveal Himself, His purposes, and His ways.” So it is our task to accurately interpret and follow God’s word, as we pray, read, study and obey what He has already said rather than claim or look for a new word or cause harm to those who have not yet found Him or disagree with us. Don’t be fooled. God is indeed great and He speaks quite well for Himself. His voice is most clearly heard through love. As we live our daily life and as we remember those murdered on September 11 let us respond and react in a way that reflects the ‘way, truth & life’.
