A Constant Hope in these Troubled Times
Written by Kimberly Karns
We could all use a healthy dose of hope in these times. Hope is a small word, yet it can bring us much joy. Hope lifts the spirits like sunshine after a dark day. In essence it is an asset that everyone desires to obtain. Hope gives an individual something to anticipate. It gives the present a purpose; a means to a desired end. Our hope today may lead to a better tomorrow.
Today’s plight certainly leaves us looking for a hope. We hope for a better future- one full of health, freedoms, stability, and prosperity. But with each passing day, we are left wondering whether these hopes can be fulfilled. A growing fear plagues us with worry and dread. While worries are natural, we cannot let ourselves become overwhelmed by fear. In spite of our burdens and concerns, we must still go on.
We can do this by utilizing the greatest resource available to mankind- Jesus Christ. He is our intercessor. We must go boldly to Him in prayer with each of our cares. Prayer brings a great hope and peace to a weary soul. COVID-19 remains, yet peace and hope can exist if we commune with God in our daily lives. Those who have gained this peace have cast even the great Pandemic immediately and wholly upon God. Of course, as Christians and good citizens, it is important for everyone to follow the guidelines imposed by our state and country. We highly value worship as a church, but were unable to meet for services during the crisis. We cancelled our special Revival meeting and even a wedding in order to comply, and always consider safety guidelines. God never expects His children to throw caution to the wind. We are all living on an earth filled with human cares and problems. But it is a great assurance knowing that He is there listening for our cry.
We pray to God because we do not dare to think what the outcome would be without Him. The power of prayer brings results that our earthly minds cannot expect. He is the Rock that we can cast our faith upon and remains a constant force in an ever-changing world. The world panics because of a lack of faith, but God’s faithfulness always remains. Even Christians sometimes struggle with fully trusting Him and at times catch themselves riding the panic wave, but Luke 18:1 instructs that “men are always to pray and not to faint,” meaning not to lose confidence.
In a time of crisis it is easy to get wrapped up in the frenzy created by the media. It is no wonder, when instead of reporting the facts, the press has induced panic and much unneeded drama. Instead of emphasizing caution, health guidelines, and assurance to the people, most news outlets have become a platform of doomsday reports.
For some time, the media has also attempted to make everything that happens in America the fault of political parties. Many agendas seem to be in an effort to undermine the President’s authority, even if it is not in the best interest of the American people. This is a time when we should all come together for the welfare of our country, not divide. The mainstream media has exploited this moment of vulnerability, bringing more fear and blame. We need to get back to the original mottos of this nation, which include “In God We Trust,” “We the People,” and “For the People.”
As a father to his children, God longs to care for us by supplying our every need. All He asks in return is a heart willing to obey His Word. II Peter 1:4 articulates the gifts of God as “exceeding great and precious promises.” Matthew 6:33 advises to seek the kingdom of God first and His righteousness and continues that all of God’s blessings will be bestowed upon us as a result. The secret to success and true peace is a life lived for God. He has a miraculous way of bringing deep peace and a sense of fulfillment back into our lives.
God knows the beginning from the end and just like in so many times past, He will prove faithful once again. Consider whether you are putting your whole confidence completely in Christ. If you need some help in this area, please reach out to Pastor Karns. He is happy to lead you to this hope-the only one we really need.
