We are all under tremendous pressure due to COVID-19. I find that pressure reveals my character and beliefs in a way that prosperity does not. Sometimes, those revelations are harsh. I was going to say “unwelcome,” but the fact is, I need to welcome the truth even when it is harsh. Accepting the truth and addressing it is the only way I can become more like Christ. Since that is my goal, truth is always welcome. After all, Jesus is the Truth (John 14:6).
So I encourage you today to join me in acting on the words of 1 Thessalonians 5:21 – “Examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.”
As I have examined my responses to COVID-19, I have found things that are good; for example:
-- I have a renewed sense of urgency to talk about Jesus with the people around me (2 Corinthians 5:20).
-- I am finding peace the more I delve into and dwell in His Word (John 14:27).
-- I am more aware of the importance of bearing eternal fruit than gathering temporal “stuff” (John 15:8).
But I have also found things that are evil. For instance:
-- I have struggled with the desire to hoard in order to “be safe” – forgetting that God is my Provider and works all things (even things I don’t like) for my good (Romans 8:28).
-- I have felt complacent because I still have an income – neglecting to get on my knees and “pray without ceasing” for the welfare of those who do not (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
-- I have focused on the negative in my thoughts and conversations – failing to “set my mind on things above, where Christ is” and to think on things that are good and excellent and praiseworthy (Colossians 3:2 and Philippians 4:8).
I share these things with you to encourage you to see COVID-19 as an opportunity to grow in the Lord and be victorious in Him. Examine what you are thinking, what you are saying, and how you are acting. Hold everything up to the light of God’s Word. Hear what His Spirit is saying. Respond to His call to abide in Him (John 15:4).
Pray with me from Psalm 19:12-14:
“Who can discern his errors? Acquit me of hidden faults. Also keep back Your servant from presumptuous sins; let them not rule over me; then I shall be blameless, and I shall be acquitted of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
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