Jake Luffy has at times stated, "What we in America call faith is often the absence of threatening circumstances." Well, threatening circumstances have indeed arrived. In recent weeks, daily life for many Americans has been turned upside down as fear and uncertainty abound. Empty grocery shelves and social distancing have become a daily new reality in the United States and other parts of the globe. And yet, God is still on the throne. He is still in control. Though the kingdoms of men may fail, He never fails. Thus, in times of trouble, He becomes the Rock upon which we stand, the citadel into which we may retreat. As Martin Luther penned, "A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing." Further on in this hymn, he wrote:
Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,
Were not the right man on our side, the man of God's own choosing;
Doth ask who that may be, Christ Jesus it is He,
Lord Sabaoth His name, from age to age the same,
And He must win the battle.
It becomes most consoling to remember that our Champion is not dead--He is alive, and you may be sure that He knows our every need (see Chris McClarney's song "God of Miracles") https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpdGTzRXk64.
So, during these unsettling times of uncertainty and adversity, let us fix our eyes upon Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith! Let us be still and KNOW that He is God (Psalm 46:10). Let us labor therefore to enter into His rest (Hebrews 4:11). Our Champion is alive, and He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us. "My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him" (Psalm 62:5).
Along these lines, we have just posted an article from Norman Grubb called "The Adventure of Adversity." https://faithlife.com/posts/2277346 It contains great wisdom and insight into the role of faith for the believer during times of adversity and trouble. It is my prayer that you will find it most encouraging and nourishing to your soul (see the section titled "Articles").
May God bless you and keep you and cause His face to shine upon you!
Building for the Future - Faithlife
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