At the time of writing, the World Health Organization had nothing positive to say where the corona virus was concerned – ‘a tragic milestone’ was the phrase emanating from the Geneva-based entity. Only a few days earlier on, this pestilence was upgraded to a global pandemic. Lockdowns in Italy and Spain ensued, the prospect of other nations in Europe looming large. More countries have reported occurrences of this disease. Aside from a hefty dose of negative news taking much of an average day’s media coverage, there is little by way of breathers when sporting events and concerts are put on hold. All because of the risk of contracting the virus through close proximity.
With about everything being of zero inspirational value, that down-in-the-dumps mood is gaining worldwide momentum. For a good many, it appears to be getting a lot worse with each passing week. What next would be on countless minds as the case for optimism diminishes with each passing day. Few would see any silver lining in the distant horizon.
Why such a multitude of crestfallen faces spread all over the globe? Plain ignorance of the silver lining that is truly in existence. Problem is, few believe that it exists.
There is a sizeable number that never heard of the Blessed Hope because it was never delivered to them. Excluding those who outrightly spurn the Living Word, there is a large group of churchgoers who probably got the wrong information which can toss up confusion, which leads to unfounded fears. A significant crowd zigzags away from the book of Revelation because they deem it to be scary material, only to be more petrified by what they see and hear from various media sources with each passing day. The same can be said about individuals who shy away from Bible prophecy; they consider it as complicated stuff capable of triggering nightmares; yet, ironically, they could be looking at a nightmare scenario unfolding before their very eyes!
What is presently fast-moving around the world in a volatile fashion would undoubtedly shake and stir many a faint heart. But we need not add to the figures in that cohort if we abide wholeheartedly in the inerrant Living Word. This is a dose of encouragement from Joshua 1:9:
“Have I commanded you? Be strong and courageous, do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
If only these words could more than resonate in many faint hearts amongst our brothers and sisters in Christ, that they believe in the Heavenly Father’s unfailingly presence in spite of the turmoil. He has not forsaken His flock despite the uncertainty. One thing is for sure – the Lord is in control of the situation. Nahum 1:7 states this very emphatically:
“The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him.”
A cheery reminder of the hymn ‘A mighty fortress is our God’ – problem is, few treasure such inspirationals in the face of politically correct tunes! Small wonder why a swelling of the running-scared mob. On a parallel note, there is insufficient teaching of the inerrant kind on the subject of Bible prophecy. People do get a chunk of wrong ideas from questionable sources that pop up in cyberspace, and that sends them on a tailspin of confusion laced with fear.
The world is as good as upside down as events continue to unfold; but if we fully understand the meaning of it, there is every reason to smile. First and foremost, the Lord is with us all the way. At the end of it all, we ultimately are assured of better times that are forever. Even if we are mortally afflicted after much suffering, we know that which follows is a glorious eternity. On the other hand, the seemingly rollercoaster train of happenings will not unseat our faith as we are aware of the Blessed Hope being close to fruition. Without a shadow of doubt, we are out of this decaying planet when things get out of hand.
This situation can be a great opportunity when it comes to strengthening our weaker brothers and sisters in Christ. At the same time, there could be a chance to share the Good News and the Blessed Hope with those yet to know the Lord.
May the Lord grant us knowledge, wisdom and understanding that accompanies a sound mind. Above all, let us ask for His anointing, so that we be full of courage and joy despite the times. That we brighten up each gloomy day as we gird our loins and keep the lamps burning.
Maranatha
Edwin Tan