This pandemic has challenged us all in different ways. Though we may be feeling the weight of the world on our shoulders, it is not ours to carry.
Yes, it is true, ‘everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution’ (2 Timothy chapter three verse 12). But we do not need to carry the burden of this world, because it is God’s to carry, not ours.
‘…casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.’ (1 Peter chapter 5 verse 7)
We could choose to focus on the doom and gloom of this pandemic, or we can turn our eyes to God and choose to live a life focused on the blessings from Him.
Be prepared
In times like these, it is important to remain vigilant, prayerful, and ensure we have discernment so that we can have a clear, God-focused mind when it comes to decision making and identifying right from wrong.
Ephesians chapter six, verses 18-20, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.”
When we have God, we become fearless, mighty warriors of our Almighty Lord. With Him there is nothing to fear.
The battle
This pandemic can easily feel like a battle, and truth is, it is a battle. No matter what you think of the current situation or whatever stance you may take, the reality is we are battling fear, we are battling controlling authorities, we are battling an attack on children, our liberties, and our health. It is a war on the world.
In Ephesians chapter six verse 10 – 12 it says, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
Before you step into the fight, you must make sure you are prepared. When preparing for battle, you must first put on your armour.
In Ephesians chapter six verse 13 – 17 it says, “Therefore, put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
You will have enemies
In this life, we are bound to make enemies and if you do, hopefully it’s for a good reason. Just like the quote by Winston Churchill, “You have enemies? Good. It means you’ve stood up for something, sometime in your life.”
It is important to remember not to be afraid to be challenged and to stand up for what is right.
There is a great quote by Charles Mackay that says, “You have no enemies, you say? Alas, my friend, the boast is poor. He who has mingled in the fray of duty that the brave endure, must have made foes. If you have none, small is the work that you have done. You’ve hit no traitor on the hip. You’ve dashed no cup from perjured lip. You’ve never turned the wrong to right. You’ve been a coward in the fight.”
It is so important to stand up for what you believe in, and righteously fight the good fight. It is also important to remember to love those who oppose, hurt, accuse, or betray you, no matter how much persecution you receive from them–they are clearly hurting and are in desperate need of a godly love.
Luke chapter six, verse 27-28 says, “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
So yes, it is okay to have enemies, but make sure you love them anyway, as God does too.
Freedom in love
There is no freedom in fear, and fear is not of God. God is love – 1 John 4:8 says, “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”
Therefore, as 1 John chapter four verse 18 says, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”
Philippians chapter four, verses six to seven says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
I will always rely on God for confirmation, peace, knowledge, and wisdom, and now more than ever. I will always fight the good fight, fight for our freedoms and our rights and liberties. I also know I am not alone in this endeavour.
Encouragement
Even though I may gain some enemies by pushing back against the lies, I know my God and I know He protects me always.
Looking to our Almighty God who is in ultimate control, He knows exactly what will happen and we can find peace in His Word.
Here is a list of helpful things to keep in mind:
Be gentle, loving, and compassionate towards others—especially those who oppose you.
Stand your ground and speak out against the injustices. Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act.”
Be humane and moral and protect each other fearlessly—especially the voiceless and the children.
Ultimately, we are all God’s children, whom He loves fiercely. Let us, as children of God, continue to treat everyone that way—as brothers and sisters in Christ.
Be strong and keep fighting the good fight and be encouraged—there are many people who stand with you.
Joshua chapter one verse nine says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Cartia Moore is a sword fighter, trained and skilled in the art of fencing. She has recently graduated from her Bachelor of Arts degree and has completed an Honours in Screen & Media Studies. She is now going on to do a Master of Teaching (Secondary), focusing in the teaching areas of English and Film studies. She is passionate and driven to inspire and encourage others to seek and find their worth and value in Him.
Cartia Moore’s previous articles may be viewed at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/cartia-moore.html