Right now, we are bombarded nearly every moment with the latest terrifying news of the COVID-19 virus. The news seems to get worse every day and there is an abundance of fear among people. We need to be looking to God for our salvation and hope, and point others to Christ!
The Apostle Peter wrote, “Don’t be surprised at the fiery trial you are going through, as though some strange thing were happening to you.” (1 Peter 4:12)
Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble, but take heart for I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
If you look down through the pages of history, we are reminded that this is not the first pandemic or catastrophic event in human history. Since the fall of humankind when sin entered this world, we have had wars, natural disasters, and many pandemics of disease, most of which were far worse than what we presently face.
We need to recognize that we live in a world where sadly there is much suffering and death. It often seems far away, but now is close to home. The truth of the matter is that ultimately, we have no control over these things. Yes, doctors are racing to find treatments and cures for diseases like the Coronavirus. Yes, our government is working to control and deal with the situation. But ultimately our trust and hope is found in Christ.
“We do not live as those without hope.”
What is happening in our world today reminds us of our human weakness and mortality. It should also point us to God’s gift of eternal life through Jesus, and the hope we have in Him. It should remind us of our need for God, his mercy, his grace, and his presence. He is in control and we can trust him.
To quote a friend of mine; “Times like this really present an opportunity to truly trust God in the moment. He is not caught off guard, He told us these times would come and that He has provided for victory.”
With the change in our patterns of life and our schedules, this season offers us the opportunity to reexamine our own lives, spend time reading the Bible and praying, and more fully trust God with the details of our lives. Many of you are already finding new ways to reach out to people. Maybe you could take walks through your neighborhood and pray for the homes you pass. Just pray with your eyes open!
Let’s continue to show the love of Christ to others and be compassionate to those in need.
As followers of Jesus, let’s remind ourselves that nothing can separate us from the love of God. We have the promise of heaven which transcends even the worst suffering and tragedy of this world. WE CAN TRUST GOD TO BRING US THROUGH THIS.
Let me leave you with these words found in Romans chapter 8. May you find comfort and hope in them.
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.