Confidence in Uncertain Times
/The Bible teaches there is nothing new under the sun. As age to age passes on, the record of history reminds us there have been many points in time where people have faced their own season of uncertainty. We should not think that in these 'covid times' we are the first to experience unstable times. To take some examples of recent history, we mention the two world wars, the great depression and think of the many millions outside the Western world who experience unimaginable turmoils in the form of drought, pestilence, other kinds of viruses and let us not forget brothers and sisters persecuted for their faith.
God's people are called to respond to our own situation in our own age. What particular challenges are you facing at this time? Have you noticed any tendencies on your part to become fearful or anxious? Can you trace back to the source of those concerns or anxieties? Perhaps it is health concerns or income loss or interpersonal conflict.
It is important in responding to our situation that Christains remember that our strength does not live in ourselves. Always we must confess our help comes from the LORD who made heaven and earth (Psalm 121:2) No matter what the times (cf. Ecclesiastes 3) we can and must trust that the promises of our God are yea and amen in Jesus Christ. (II Corinthians 1:20). Our triune God is the source of our confidence.
It is crucial then that we maintain our convictions concerning God's purposes. He is the Ruler Supreme who hears humble prayer. With the Psalmist (Psalm 62:5-8)) let us hold to this rock solid conviction:"For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. 6 He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. 7 On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God. 8 Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us.
Sadly many in our nation no longer believe we need God as revealed in the Holy Scriptures. Nor do the majority want Him. They believe that man has become the measure of all things. How did we get to this point? Fingers could be pointed in many directions but that solves nothing. We do need to encourage others of the urgency of the present hour. Are we being lulled to sleep? Are our present circumstances part/type of the veiling the Scriptures speak of for instance in Isaiah 44:18? "They do not know nor understand; For He has shut their eyes, so that they cannot see, and their hearts, so that they cannot understand." I am told the idea of shutting the eyes is akin to smearing or plastering.
2020 vision in our nation is almost lost--many have their eyes plastered. Humility demands for us to pray that the LORD would also help us to see clearly. Lord--help us to know what to do and when to do it and how to do it and to not give up! Let us not tire of calling others to our founding foundations May the LORD so help us as we in our own small way seek to honour our King.
And then to remember along with the hymn-writer:"Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day; earth's joys grow dim its glories pass away; change and decay in all around I see; O Thou who changest not, abide with me.
In closing, let us stand with the Scriptures believing the eternal truth. "When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. (Psalm 56:3) "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Phillipians 4:6-7) "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."(I Peter 5:6&7)
Wishing you the Lord's grace and peace. Sincerely, Rev. P.J. Vellenga
