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No panic zone
While on sabbatical, I traveled in a few states and carried on conversations with friends in a few different countries. I was very impressed with what I observed among Christians. A restful confidence emanated from nearly each person. I praised God for the moving testimony to His peace that passes understanding, knowing that these aren’t people traveling easy roads. These were pastors commanded to not meet or sing as a church, people in communities where virus death rates surged over 4%, school administrators condemned by both those wanting classes open and those demanding they be closed, civil and religious leaders attacked – sometimes physically – for supporting or not supporting the latest social demand. Nonetheless, they were all at ease in the hand of God.
Bob Wilkin probably spoke best for all when he wrote about COVID-19 back in June:
God is in control. The virus has not taken Him by surprise. It is part of His sovereign will. We can be calm during the storm because the One who stills the storm is in the boat with us. We have a chance to shine as lights in the darkness. If people see in us a healthy respect for the dangers of the virus and yet also boldness that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us, then they will be encouraged in their faith, or drawn toward Christ if they are unbelievers. We may not anticipate the next big thing that comes our way. But, as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, we can be sure that 1) God is in control, and 2) we can handle whatever happens by the power of the Holy Spirit within us.
God bless,
Wayne