Being Certain in Uncertain Times
We are living in a strange world these days; no toilet paper in the aisles, no sports on TV, and no hugs or handshakes. Events are being cancelled and church is enjoyed on a screen rather than sitting next to our fellow believers. We are uncertain of how long this will last, we are uncertain of what the virus will do, and as Christians many of us are uncertain about how we should respond.
As with generations before us who have faced much greater trials and became stronger through them, there are lessons to be learned from our current situation. We are Christians, and with that fact comes the blessing of certainty. Certainty of who is in control, certainty of our salvation, and certainty of the weight of eternity in comparison to our short time on earth.
We have an opportunity to show those around us a peace that passes understanding, an opportunity to find those who are fearful and uncertain and share the gift of peace and certainty. This is a time when unbelievers find themselves praying and asking questions about God, which means this is a perfect time to participate in the harvest. What a great moment to share the fact that we are sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
There is a Christian song I have been enjoying lately that has some encouraging words for a time like this. The lyrics read: “They say fear haunts and pain hates. I say pain strengthens and fear drives faith.” We are different from the world and our differences should be apparent in times of trouble. Protect your family, pray for an end to this, and do your part to lessen the spread of illness, but please know that if you are in Christ you have nothing to fear.
The words of Paul to the Philippians ring true for us today: “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved – and that by God” (Philippians 1: 27-28).