STANDING STRONG IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY

It feels like many Christians seem fearful and distressed in the face of the recent virus that is spreading all over the world. As we watch the news channels we see the spread increase, people are contracting the disease on a daily basis. The numbers of those infected seem to double by the day. Fear and confusion seem to be the order of the day as many tend to go into a state of panic and desperation. I want to remind you today that the Lord says that He has not given us a spirit of fear, but we have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. Although we see and experience the confusion and panic all around us, we need to stand on the faith that we have established in God and know that He is our shield and fortress even in the face of this adversity.

Our Scripture Text for this Morning is: Romans 8:15 “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.”

This is a time where our faith is going to be tested. Are we going to fall short of trusting in God? We have been called and saved for such a time as this, so that we can show forth the praises of him who has called us out of darkness into his marvellous light. [1 Peter 2:9 “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.”]. This is the time to give God the glory, praise and honour. This is the time to stand and declare the power of God that is able to break the yoke of the enemy. Even as the world around us seems disillusioned and in despair, we know that we have the answer to the crisis that we face. No weapon formed against us is going to prosper because God is for us and with us and in us.

In a situation like this it calls for the soldiers of the cross of Jesus Christ to be strong in the Lord. We are to be equipped for the battle ahead. Ephesians 6:11 “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” While we adhere to the instructions of the health officials and government personnel, we are also to stand in faith and resist the works of the enemy. Fasting and prayer is the best counter measure against an outbreak of this nature. Draw closer to the Lord so that the enemy does not use our guilt against us. If you are not in good standing with the Lord, repent and ask for His forgiveness and return to the place that you once occupied, but this time with a purpose. Become all that God wants you to be even when all seems hopeless and worthless, God is still in control and He will never let you down. Psalm 37:5 “Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass.” Even this Covid19 disease has come to pass. It will not be here for long, so be strong and be of good cheer.

When we know our God, we will not doubt Him because we will also know His strength and power. While Satan may be a powerful enemy, we must also remember that he himself is a created being unlike God who is eternal, almighty, the Creator of the Universe. Satan is already defeated and this virus is just another attack of the enemy over humanity. Our God is the same Yesterday, Today and Forever and He is in total control. There is no need to panic, be disillusioned, feel anxious, or get despondent because Jesus has our backs. He has paid our debt in full. His blood cleanses us from all sin and unrighteousness. Because of Him and the sacrifice that He made on our behalf, we can stand today against any force that arises to cause us heartache and pain, and bring them down in Jesus name. I encourage you to spend time in prayer and meditation during this time and see the goodness of the Lord being poured over the nations of the world once more!

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