Good morning,
What do we do in the face of a crisis? We should pray and seek God.
Scripture reveals that God provides people to comfort those in crisis.
This week we have seen those who have comforted others.
Now it is our turn.
Today, we will look at some ways we can comfort others.
COVID-19 and Believers in Christ
CRISIS: COVID-19. Stay at home order. Social distancing. No money to pay bills.
This last month have been devastating to many. Our daily routines have been upended. We do not know what will happen next.
COMFORTER: Believers in Christ (us)
So, we need to know what to do. Romans 12:9-16 may be of some help.
“Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another;11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.16 Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.”
What can we do to make a difference?
First, love one another. Do something so others know you are thinking about them. A card, telephone call, video chat.
Second, we should see others as more important than ourselves. Even if we are the ones that are most in crisis, we need to find a way to help others. Making masks, donating food, making meals for shut-ins.
Third, serve the Lord. Whatever we are doing for the Lord, we should continue doing. Look at our church’s. They can not meet in the building, but each Pastor has found a way to connect with his people. People need hope during this time. We have the hope they need. We need to tell others about the hope Jesus has for us.
Fourth, rejoice in hope. That hope is in Jesus Christ. He promised to be with us in every circumstance. He watches over us. Believers know their ultimate home is heaven.
Fifth, be patient during the crisis. It will pass. Use the time to reconnect with family. Learn something new. Relax. Study the Bible.
Sixth, pray. Never stop praying. Pray for the hospital workers, law enforcement officials, healthcare professionals, governors, individuals effected negatively, and the President. They are working hard to bring this crisis to an end. Thank God that He is in control. Pray that many would get saved during this crisis.
Seventh, distributing to the necessity of saints. There are people that need things. If we know there is a need, we should try and meet that need. It could be money, food, encouragement, or comfort.
Eighth, care about people. Rejoice when they rejoice and weep with those that weep. Think of Ruth and her relationship with Naomi. She was there in the good times and the bad. We need to do that with those God puts in our path.
Ninth, be of the same mind. This is not the time to play the blame game, criticize others, or dispute the finer points of our decision makers. We need to comfort and encourage.
I hope this weeks Daily Devotions has been an encouragement and challenge to you.
Please go and help others effected by this crisis.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001