BRO. IVAN ECK (KANSAS, USA)
We know that most people have questions about the worldwide pandemic we are facing. While there are good reasons to practice great carefulness, God would not want our spirits to be oppressed or tormented by our fears. So, I ask us this question, “What should we do in these times of uncertainty?”
The Bible has many examples of godly people who faced fearful times. Yet, in those fearful moments, they learned to trust in the God of heaven. As we look to the past and see all the examples of how God helped people, we should take a moment to look up and lay hold on courage!
We find some good instruction in the 12th chapter of Hebrews. We are told to lay aside weights and sinful things. These would keep us from having spiritual victory. Then, as we patiently run the race that is set before us, let us purposefully look unto Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith!
I am convinced that the Lord would have us to let our troubles awaken our spirits to a greater trust in God. The Psalmist wrote, “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee” (Psalm 56:3), and then again, “When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek” (Psalm 27:8).
Saints, be encouraged! I know our Redeemer liveth! The captain of our salvation is the very force which opened a way through the Red Sea! He is the one who made blind eyes to see and the lame to leap for joy! In great confidence He stood before dead men and called them back to life! He has, by His very word, made raging seas to sleep! He utterly healed the hopeless lepers! He had mercy on the guilty and despised! He confounded wise men with the simplest of answers! He set Legion free from a host of devils and gave him back his right mind! He is our fortress and high tower! He is our captain and is not ashamed to call us brethren! He “is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24). He fought the devil in the wilderness and won! He went to the cross and gave His life a ransom for many! He laid hold on death and removed the sting! He went into the grave dead and came out alive! He is risen! He makes strife to cease! He is the very Prince of Peace! He is the blessed and only potentate! He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords! He is the Alpha and the Omega! He is my Savior!
Joshua and the children of Israel were brought to a moment of choice. Joshua gave this clear answer, “as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15).
Oh dear ones, let me gently ask, “Where is our faith?”
God is calling to us. He would have us use these times for honest introspection; this simply means for us to examine ourselves, whether we be in the faith. Are we anchored in that Rock, the rock Christ Jesus?
Stay encouraged!
May God bless each one!
