Assurance in the Midst of Uncertainty

The COVID-19 crisis has brought so many reactions to control its spread.  The effect of self-isolation and social-distancing has profound impact not only on the church but for every individual.  How do we address this issue? What do we do in the midst of panic, fear and anxiety over the concern of this dreaded virus? This is the time to reflect on the goodness of the Lord in our lives.  His faithfulness.

Let us be reminded that we are a people of faith.  “For we live by faith, not by sight,” Paul reminds the Corinthian believers. We may not know the reasons for this rare infectious outbreak, but, as believers, we live by faith, recognizing that as people of faith we cling to the Lord Jesus Christ, who gives us faith to trust Him in uncertain times.  This is the time to commune with God.  “Do not be anxious about anything, says Paul, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God,” And in another verse, he said, “pray continually.” These are helpful tips that we are to be people of prayer. We take on an attitude of dependence and surrender, communing with the Lord throughout the day and into the night as we express our trust, our faith in Him in the midst of crisis. Let us pray that God will redeem us all for His glory. For He hears our prayer. Yes, prayer is very important.

We have a role to play in defeating this virus – by faith, through prayer and as a church—we want to be obedient citizens, responsible believers by practicing good hygiene, social distancing, exercising restraint as we avoid hysteria in the hoarding of food and goods.  Let us be part of the solution instead of the problem.  Also, this is the time and great opportunity for us to share the Gospel to people we love, relatives and friends or even friend of friends but because of social distancing there are other options available to us like online or telephone praying and sharing.

And last, let us remember that God is sovereign over all. We, believers have to recognize God’s sovereignty over all matters — that God is the Ruler of all — from the early church to the present day. Notice throughout the Scriptures the prayers of the faithful as they addressed God as “Sovereign Lord.” This doctrine of God recognizes God as the absolute ruler. Nothing goes beyond His notice. Nothing escapes His rule.  Somebody though may ask: “Why, then, has this sovereign God allowed this vicious virus to spread?” Since the fall, our world experiences the consequences of the wickedness of sin.  This does not diminish the sovereignty of God. We eagerly wait for the redemption of this world that “the kingdom of the world will become the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Yes, God is sovereign. God is good and He is good all the time.

“The Lord our God is our refuge, make Him, the Most High, your shelter, no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your home.  For He will order His angels to protect you wherever you go.” assures the Psalmist. Promising us through this word that God is in control.  Have faith and trust Him alone.