Our world has been hit hard this year. For the first time in my life, I looked up the word pandemic to see what it actually means. For the record, Wikipedia defines it as, “An epidemic of disease that has spread across a large region, for instance multiple continents or worldwide, affecting a substantial number of people.” It has quickly become our new reality!
Our normal every day lives have been turned upside down. People have been gripped with fear, as evidenced by hoarding toilet paper and a crashing stock market. Now, it’s no small thing when a virus causes people to lose their jobs and others to lose their lives. But Christians should have a unique perspective in such unprecedented times.
A Christian Perspective
When once-in-a-lifetime events happen, God can use them to call our attention back to the most important things in life. By putting into practice His biblical wisdom, we can get peacefully to the other side of this pandemic. Which of these principles does God want you to keep in mind right now?
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Jesus Christ is our firm foundation and in Him alone is our salvation.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Heb. 13:8, NASB
“The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord, we have an everlasting Rock.” Isaiah 26:3-4, NASB
“Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation.” Isaiah 12:2, NASB
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In every circumstance, God’s will is for us to rejoice, pray, and show gratitude. This transforms our perspective!
“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” I Thess. 5:16-18, NASB
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7, NASB
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We must pray for our fellow man, those in authority, and for our nation.
“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority…” I Timothy 2:1-2, NLT
“Then if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” 2 Chron. 7:14, NLT
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We need the Word of God on a daily basis.
“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:8-9, NLT
“But He answered and said, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” ‘” Matthew 4:4, NKJV
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We must make the most of our time on earth, seeking the Lord’s will.
“…whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.'” James 4:14-15, NKJV
“Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17, NASB
Even when our world seems out of control, remember that God is always in control. And, as Christians, He is working all things together for our good.
I would love to hear what lessons the Lord has been teaching you and your family through this pandemic. Send me an email at [email protected].
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