By Julia Fernandes
- The battle against this pandemic is not our battle but God’s.
“Thus says the LORD to you. Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great multitude for the battle is not yours but God's.” 2 Chronicles 20:15
There is a constant spiritual warfare fought in heavenly realms between good and evil that spills on the earth, which we are unaware of. We are not equipped to fight this battle the way God and His angels are.
For example, the answer to Daniel’s prayer was delayed for 21 days simply because the angel sent to answer Daniel was restrained by the Prince of Persia (demon), and finally broke through with the help of Michael, the Archangel. Job’s misery was nothing but a challenge thrown by Satan to God to reveal Job’s character.
“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.” Ephesians 6:12
- “Be still and know that I AM GOD.” Psalm 46:10
“Be still…”is found many times in the Bible, and is always written in the context of a time of trouble and war. Be inactive and experience the power of God.
Since most of the times the battle is not ours to fight, any attempt on our part can make things worse for us and, hinder the work of God’s angels in helping us fight such great battles. Most of the times we do not know what we are dealing with. Hence, the lockdown should be seen in this light of being still while allowing God to take complete control.
- “Put on the full armour of God that you may be able to withstand the wiles of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11
While this quote has been spoken in a spiritual context, in terms of practicality it makes sense to completely protect ourselves through masks, gloves. Protect and defend yourself by taking all necessary precautions as and where possible. Pray, but do not let your guards down.
- Do not continuously watch negative news on TV
It is not good to watch destructions of any kind while it is happening. Lot's wife disobeyed God's warning by watching the destruction of Sodom and was punished by being turned into a "pillar of salt." Genesis 19:26. Refrain from reading or hearing constant news about the pandemic, either on TV or on social media.
- Do not grumble during this lockdown
This lockdown may be difficult for many. And it is quite possible for some of us to turn fearful, grim and even grumble. The Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:10: “do not grumble as some of them did and were destroyed by the destroyer.” When stress levesl are high, tempers can get flared up. But grumbling will only make your inner environment tense. As Jesus answered and said to them, "Do not grumble among yourselves. John 6:43
- Do not continuously speak about it
Repeatedly hearing or taking the name of this pandemic whips up and releases the energy of fear. The more you talk about it, the more you give it power. It is safer to speak about it when it’s become a thing of the past.
If you notice carefully, I have not mentioned the name of the pandemic at all in this blog.
- Don’t forget God when it’s over
Finally, humbly and patiently, bow your heads and pray with all your might. But don’t forget God when the pandemic is over. Don't forget to thank Him. He may have spared your life in ways you really don't know. Continue to deepen your relationship with God every day. In every moment remember, thank, praise and love Him from the bottom of your heart.