This question needs to be considered with the spirit of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” In humanity’s fallen state, people often latch onto extreme positions. Most people, Christian or not, are going to take measures to defend themselves when attacked with violence. In those cases, it is a spontaneous act of preservation.
The Apostle Peter in the Garden of Gethsemane attempted to prevent our Lord Jesus from being arrested by striking one of the Temple guards with his sword. The Lord rebuked Peter. “‘Put away your sword,’ Jesus told him. ‘Those who use the sword will die by the sword.’” Matthew 26:52.
Jesus also said, “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” Matthew 16:25. True Christians should not obtain firearms or weapons with the intent of saving their lives. Instead, we are to recognize that we belong to God, and He is our Father. “Have faith in God.” (Mark 11:22)
Our daily experiences since we became the Lord’s followers have been guided and guarded by power unseen. We are pupils in the school of Christ. We are being taught obedience and developed in faith. How important faith is we probably cannot fully appreciate now. It seems to be the one thing that the Lord specially seeks for in His followers.
Thus, according to our faith, we learn to rejoice in tribulation. We cannot enjoy the sufferings, but we can enjoy the thought which faith attaches to them. 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 (ESV), 16 So we do not lose heart…For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison…” James 1:12 (NIV), “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”
This does not mean we should ignore or neglect simple measures assuring our well-being, such as wearing a seatbelt when in a car, locking our doors at night, obeying laws, and taking proper health measures.
Be guided by the Holy Spirit and the spirit of a sound mind. Take simple measures to protect yourself and others but remember nothing happens to you that the Father doesn’t know and permit. The Lord knows what we are able to bear. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NET), “No trial has overtaken you that is not faced by others. And God is faithful: He will not let you be tried beyond what you are able to bear, but with the trial will also provide a way out so that you may be able to endure it.”
