Bath Chronicle

Genuine hope for a crime-free tomorrow

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Crime an ever-present danger and the sad reality is that it’s not if, but when, you will become a victim. It is unwise to become complacent because then we will be vunerable and we can make life safer by following a principle “The wise see danger ahead and avoid it, but fools keep going and get into trouble” (Proverbs 22:3). Physical injury and material loss is coupled with lasting mental and emotional harm and affects families.

Robbery: Be ever aware that thieves are opportunis­ts. Do we secure our homes and cars? Do we admit a stranger, keep valuables out of sight and not flaunt them? Your judgment could be impaired by overdrinki­ng or using drugs because then you are not thinking clearly and won’t see danger. When travelling listen to informed locals and the authoritie­s. Recently we are hearing more and more reports about animals being stolen too and, again, take steps to ensure they are kept safe.

Sexual assault: Do not ignore feelings if you feel uncomforta­ble or uneasy. Walk confidentl­y and stay alert and scream, escape, fight back using the element of surprise, run to a safe place and call the police.

Cybercrime: Be wary – don’t be fooled by profession­al-looking websites – legitimate financial institutio­ns will not ask you to email highly confidenti­al informatio­n! Be cautious (Proverbs 14:15). Analyse a company and its policies and be suspicious if an offer looks too good to be true because it probably is.

Identity theft: Protect sensitive informatio­n and keep track of your accounts.

We may have heard all the above before and in today’s world there are no guarantees but we can reduce the risks and soon you can rest assured that God wants to end crime (Isaiah 61:8), has the power to stop crime (Job 37:23), has promised loyal ones a peaceful new world (Psalms 37:11). To find out when God will initiate the removal examine the Bible for yourself which is rich in practical wisdom and no other book gives us a genuine hope for a crime-free tomorrow.

Sue Pilgrim

Bath

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