4/22/2020
“The virus we cannot see.” That’s how the coronavirus was described at one of White House press briefings by task force coordinator Debbie Birx, a scientist and physician who is an expert in infectious disease and vaccine research. President Trump also said, “We have an invisible enemy.” Although Trump holds the most powerful position in the world, the unseen realm of this world operates far above him. In our life, we have and will experience many invisible enemies that go far beyond what can be seen under a microscope. This spiritual reality is referenced in Ephesians 6:12
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
We have invisible enemies who mean to tempt, control and destroy us. There is no doubt about it. The invisible enemies include: devil and the fallen angels; virus of sin, virus of idols worship, virus of human-centered thoughts and ideologies; virus of greed, pride and man-made systems, etc.
But our God is sovereign, and He loves us with an immensity we cannot possibly understand. What Satan means for evil, God means for good. Whatever is allowed to happen in this world and around us, we can be assured God intends to use it for good – including this global pandemic known as the coronavirus. Could it be possible for God to use this crisis to wake up the church ushering in revival? I cannot think of a better time for the church to go into the prayer closet and put Ephesians 6:10-11 into action:
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
I don’t mean this type of armor will protect you physically from the virus. This is Spiritual Armor – for those who have surrendered to the lordship of Christ and entered into His kingdom.
Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel … (Ephesians 6:13-19).
Praise God for we can find detailed instructions that apply to our current state of affairs and help us to fight against and overcome the invisible enemies.
Commit to the word of Truth. By fastening on the belt of truth (word of God), we are less vulnerable to deception. As we are all forced to adjust our lifestyles, let us not fall into the trap of the enemies and simply find new ways of entertaining ourselves. Rather than seeking our own pleasures, let us faithfully seek Him and His will in God’s holy word.
Rely on, trust in Christ. We are to put on the breastplate of righteousness. Acknowledge that we have no righteousness of our own, so the only righteousness we have is that of Christ’s. We can lean onto Him, draw close, and guard our hearts with His pure goodness – to help us overcome fears, doubts, and temptations.
Be ready to tell others. In 2 Timothy 4:2 we read, Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. I dare say we are in season! When the world is in a panic, and so many questions about the future and safety abound, we have the message of peace, joy and ultimate, eternal security!
Hold onto God as your strength. Psalm 91:4-5 says, God is our shield and refuge; He is our hiding place in the day of difficulty; his faithfulness will keep us safe when we are being shot at by arrows, flaming or otherwise.”
Enough said! Know that your ultimate security is in the salvation Christ bought by sacrificing His own body for you. We are to put on the helmet of salvation, knowing we were rescued from the fear of death through the work of Christ. 1 John 5:13, those who believe in the name of the Son of God … may know that you have eternal life.
Spend time in God’s presence. Most of us are having more available time at home. We can use this opportunity to change our habits, spending time in God’s presence – gardening, reading, studying, meditating on Scripture (privately and as a family), and praying. This piece of armor is intertwined with prayer – praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication … making supplication for all saints.
Let us pray:
Merciful and Holy God, we praise your wonderful name and thank you for your faithfulness and love toward us. We want join and amen prophet Isaiah: “In that day they will say, ‘Surely this is our God; we trusted in him and waited on him, and he saved us. This is the Lord, we trusted in him and waited on him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.” Lord your word can purify us and strengthen us; your forgiveness and grace can refresh us and cure us. Our church and our nation need you! Please protect and guide our president and his team to make right decisions and be with all levels of leaders and staff who serve our country; and be with those who are in sorrow, fear, and sufferings. In Christ’s name, Amen.
Our prayers are lifted for:
Jeanette Bohringer; Ricarda Carlisle; Mary Condon and Husband; Judy Davis; Dan (Jim’s nephew); Martha Glassy; Joan Hassell; Charles Harden; Betty Howell; Crystal (Nancy Jones’ daughter); Sheila Levine; Frannie and Flores family; Angela Rose; Jim Rathmell; Ann Smith; Grace & Rhodes family; Russell Scheibel; Megan Sullivan family, USAF and our Nation
Fellowship United Methodist Church 