Living Under God’s Protection

Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been dominating the world news, economy, stock markets, air travel, and life as we know it. There is fear and panic among people everywhere. But as believers, we can not only survive but also thrive through these turbulent times. 

Living under the protection of God is a big topic in the Scriptures. God has made specific provisions for those who choose to live under His protection. While many people are motivated by fear, the people of God can rest in peace, knowing that He is in control of our lives. He will not let any evil to come near us. We are not ignorant or condescending, but we do not have to let a virus dictate our lives. Let us look at seven things you can know/do during this time!

1. Do not fear. God is in control. He does not do anything random. He has a plan and a purpose. No matter what happens in our world, it must pass through the courts of heaven. God does not bring evil upon us but works through situations that we face. Do not get God mixed up with the devil. The enemy comes to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10). The affairs of our lives do not catch God by surprise. He is not wringing His hands thinking, “What am I going to do now?” He is not calling on the angels to discuss a bailout plan. No. He already has a solution before the problem began. God said, “Fear not, for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10 ESV).

2. You have insurance. Before the various plagues struck the Egyptians, God said, “I will make a clear distinction between my people and your people…” (Exodus 8:23 NLT). One of the benefits of following Christ is that we are immune from the crisis around us. A ship does not drown when it is surrounded by water. A ship’s integrity is compromised only when water gets inside it. In the same way, you may be surrounded by plague but do not let it get inside of you. God promised, “So you shall serve the LORD your God, and He will bless your bread and your water. And I will take sickness away from the midst of you” (Exodus 23:25 NKJV). 

 

3. Spend quality time with your loved ones. There is never enough time to spend with the people we love and care for. During this time of limited movement, take the time to bond with your family and loved ones. Sometimes the people who sacrifice the most for us are least appreciated. Why not pick up the slack and start serving your family a little more. Love and assist your family by being available and doing chores together like cooking or cleaning. Spend one-on-one time with your kids and let them know how important they are to you. 

 

4. Protect yourself. We are in the world but not of this world. Just because we’re Christ-followers does not mean we have to throw away our brains. Protect yourself by washing your hands frequently with soap. Avoid physical contact such shaking hands and giving hugs. Keep a distance of four to six feet between you and others. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Take vitamins and supplements to boost your immune system. 

 

5. Have a personal revival. When we are forced to distance ourselves from others and when we cannot even go to church for fellowship, it makes for a great time to experience a personal awakening. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you (James 4:8). Let us use this time of isolation to grow closer to God. Be still and ask the Holy Spirit if there are areas in your life where you can come up higher. When we are vertically strong, we will be horizontally successful also. 

 

6. Talk about Jesus. Seasons of uncertainty and crisis are some of the best times to share the gospel as many hearts are open, willing, and receptive to the things of God. You do not have to be obnoxious about it. Nor do you have to barge into people’s lives waving a Bible, preaching guilt and condemnation. Be sensitive and on the lookout for those who are distressed and overwhelmed by fear, anxiety, and hopelessness. We are the salt and light of the world. Let us use these opportunities to bring hope, healing, and wholeness through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

 

7. Declare God’s Word. Step away from the news and social media and tune into God’s promises. Shield yourself and your family by proclaiming Psalm 91 as often as you can. Let me say a prayer of peace, protection, and provision over your life: “Father, I declare that fear and anxiety leave your people immediately. I command the death and destruction of Coronavirus around the world. I proclaim sickness, disease, crisis, calamities, and plagues to flee from us. I thank you for protecting our children and senior citizens from catching anything that would be detrimental to their health. I thank you for strength and speedy recovery over those who have been infected. I declare that the only thing we will catch is the goodness of God, mercy, strength, health, longevity, favor, abundance, and a satisfied life.” You said, “The Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil” (2 Thessalonians 3:3 KJV). Lord, we believe and receive your peace and protection in Jesus’ Name Amen.” 

 

“A thousand may fall at your side, And ten thousand at your right hand; But it shall not come near you” (Psalm 91:7 NKJV).

 

Help Us Spread Hope: https://buildinternational.org

Building People. Spreading Hope.