PASTOR’S EDITORIAL

The Lord’s Presence Makes the Difference

COVID-19 is indiscriminately striking fear in the hearts of people across the globe. It is not a respecter of persons or any human system. This insidious and invisible enemy is on a seek and destroy mission. How can the church keep from being controlled by fear in this pandemic? Trust in the LORD’s presence with us and we will not fear says Psalm 46:1-11. We need to be still! Trust in His presence to do the following:

To Secure Us in Uncertainty…Vss.1-4

The LORD is with us to help us in the time of trouble. Regardless of life’s uncertainties; i.e., the bottom falls out (the earth gives way); if we hit bottom (mountains fall in the sea); or if we are in an overwhelming and shaky situation, we do not fear because the LORD is with us. He was present to fireproof the faithful in a fiery furnace. He was present with His disciples in a ship calming stormy seas and conquering fear by the power of His Word.

To Sustain Us in Adversity…Vss.5-6   

God is not limited by adverse circumstances to sustain us. He provides for those who abide in His holy city (believers). He will not fail to sustain us in a timely manner, in the morning. Though nations may fail, His Word promises to sustain us even in adversity. God feeds the sheep of His pasture.

To Glorify Himself in Our Calamity…Vss.7-11

The LORD Almighty (Warrior) is our invincible fortress and He is with us. The Psalmist emphasizes that the LORD is the God of Jacob, this reminds us God’s covenant relationship with us is based on divine grace and not human merit.  Though Jacob’s past was that of a schemer, this did not prevent God’s  gracious covenant relationship with him.

The Psalmist tells us to look at the works of God. We are to focus on what God has done in Christ rather than on circumstances. God says, “be still.” Position yourselves and know the LORD Almighty. We come to know God in a more personal and intimate way after being with Him in calamities. Human calamity is God’s opportunity to exalt Himself. Glory to the LORD that He came in person to be with us, Immanuel! He died on Calvary for us and for His Father’s glory! He was glorified when God raised Him from the dead! Peace be with you! He promised to never leave His church alone! Glory to His Name!