Psalm 91:1-2: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”

So what is God teaching us during these difficult times?

My great grandfather loved Psalm 91:1-2. These verses speak hope to disappointment. Whoever resides in the safe-place of the Exalted One, whoever lives in mindful fellowship with the Almighty and his protective care, whoever consciously and consistently embraces the Lord and entrusts oneself to his loving care, need not fear. These God-ordained events call us to trust and obey in knowing that all these things happen for our eternal good and God’s glory.

What benefit is there in experiencing these trials? It can lead to deep introspection about our spiritual condition. Some may have no faith at all, or an anemic faith, and therefore need to give attention to their relationship with Jesus. Also, God uses these trials to mold and shape us to be like Jesus (James 1:2-4).

Finally, we ought to come out of this pandemic more determined than ever to run with patience the race that is set before us (Hebrews 12:1); more determined than ever to realize that this world is not our home but heaven is (Philippians 3:20). The headwinds of adversity can produce the spiritual fortitude and endurance that God uses to enable us to stand strong in him (Romans 5:3-4).   

So, by his Spirit, let us all draw near to God in faith and rededicate our lives to serve Him more effectively.