And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved  (Matt 24:12-13)

Without a doubt, we are living in ending days as this world deals with a pandemic COVID-19 virus that has wreaked havoc on all nations.  Crisis situations have a way of bringing out the good and the bad in people. Some people are turning to God and others still turn to their own ways.  Facing uncertain times can fill you with fear. You may have lost all that you had in this world but the good news is that you can never lose the benefits of God’s mercy and provision for all that you need. Trials are a way to learn patience and to grow in your faith.  Every battle in your life has the power to do a greater work in you and to reveal more of God’s grace and strength.

We may know where this virus started, but are left with unclear reasons as to how and why God allowed it to happen. He had a reason,however, we may never discern that reason this side of heaven.

So what do we know? We read in Scripture that God’s ways are much higher than those of man. He sees the beginning and end of this world and nothing is hidden from him. You were loved even before God formed you in the womb.  While we may not understand the purpose of our sufferings, bear in mind that Jesus clearly told us that in his word that we would have many troubles in our lives. Right now, Satan is still the prince over this earth but he knows his time is growing short. Those who are surrendered to Christ are dealing with the same painful trials as the lost as the enemy seeks to take down believers all through this world in order to make them ineffective witnesses.

We are not exempt from pain and persecution. What is promised by God is that He would be with us to the end in our trials and take us through them. He has overcome the world! You are never alone in your struggles nor are you ever without hope.  In the midst of your darkest day, there is a light of hope through Christ that leads you to victory.  You may be afflicted in every way but you can never be crushed. You may be struck down but you can never be destroyed. The hope of Christ that is with you is your guarantee that all things you endure are working out for your good both in this world and in heaven.

It takes faith and forbearance for all believers as time grows short.  Things will get worse. That should not frighten a true believer for we knew this time would come. While we don’t know the day and hour of his return, Christ has given us signs to know when it is near.  As we watch every day as the signs converge and evil increases, the darkness is filling this earth. In spite of that, we know that it is signaling the return of our Blessed Hope, Jesus Christ, who is coming to make all things new.

Whatever overwhelming situation you are dealing with in this time of crisis, remember that Christ saw you before he formed you in the womb and he is going to be the strength you need to get through it. Nothing can happen to you apart from his perfect will even when you don’t understand his ways. God is more powerful than this virus.

The last enemy to be destroyed is death.  Satan may rule this world for a short time more but our eternal home is secured in a kingdom that will never end. For now, stay in the battle and finish the race that was prepared for you until Jesus returns to take you home. You can’t lose no matter what happens here.

Soon we will be with Christ. Look up, for your Redemption draws near!