During Vs. After

Thank God that all trials eventually end. However, it is not the fact of the trial’s end (termination) that is the most meaningful end (outcome) of the trial. Far better than the reality of a trial’s ending is the manner in which it ends. Many verses which teach the temporary nature of trials also hint at or even boldly declare the blessed result that comes after.

First, the end of a trial brings welcome relief and abundant joy. “For He inflicts pain, and gives relief; He wounds, and His hands also heal” (Job 5:18). “Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5).

Second, the end of a trial often brings restoration and renewal of blessing. Beginning with “You have tried us, O God,” the psalmist goes on to describe being refined as silver, being brought into a net, bearing an oppressive burden, having men riding over his head, and going through fire and water. Then he concludes, “Yet You brought us out into a place of abundance” (Psalm 66:10-12). Job had to endure much, but later there was the compassionate and merciful outcome of the Lord’s dealings (James 5:11).

Third, by God’s design, the end of a trial also brings measurable growth, maturity, and stability. “When [after] He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold” (Job 23:10). “All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness” (Hebrews 12:11). “After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you” (I Peter 5:10).

Fourth, the end of a trial even brings glory to God that will last into eternity. "Now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith ... may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (I Peter 1:6-7)

Really good things happen in the “after,” but the “during” is not so pretty. That’s just reality, reflecting God’s pattern of sanctification. Sometimes while deep in the “during,” we want to shine the same as we will in the “after.” We want to have all the maturity and all the answers now. We want to be able to process everything thoroughly so that we can respond with great depth and certainty. Of course, we can thank God for glimpses of truth and growth that He gives along the way. We can thank Him for moments of reprieve, for instances of refreshing truth, and for infusions of internal strength, all of which can happen in the “during.” Nevertheless, there is the reality that it is hard to process everything properly and formulate completely right ideas in the “during.” We don’t yet see the full picture. We are influenced by emotion and pain. We haven’t yet experienced the healing and completing stage. The work is God’s, and so is its timing, and we can’t finish it more quickly than God finishes it.

In the “during,” we must have patience. We must seek God and seek His truth. We should desire to take each step that God presents to us. In the meanwhile, however, we cannot be too hard on ourselves by expecting the fullness of the “after” while we are in the “during.” We do not yet have the fullness of joy and relief. We do not yet have the restoration and renewed blessing. We do not yet have the God-given completion, maturity, and stability that come in the “after.” We are not yet fully prepared to shine for His glory. This is not the time to boldly rush forward, to be the leader; this is the time to quietly submit and be pliable. We can strive for, desire, and pray for the effects of the “after.” Meanwhile, we must rest and be at peace in the “during,” even though it is uncomfortable and unsettled.

In the midst of our discouragement, we might think things will never get better. We might wait and wait, thinking the end will never come, but when we finally reach the “after,” God often does so much in such a short time that we are left amazed. In reality, He is working the entire time, but there is a tremendous impact in the conclusion, when He brings all things together. We must not despair in the ugliness of the “during,” because God can cause us to emerge into the “after” with far more benefit and with greater speed that we ever could have dreamed.

After a break of nearly two years, I am reviving my blog, at least for now. I became focused in different writing endeavors during COVID, and then my own battle with long COVID prevented me from resuming. While I remain deeply ensconced in that personal battle, it is a sign of some progress that I am even considering writing again. Much of the content will be shaped by my on-going trial, but I hope that what I share will be in keeping with the theme of the blog, which is that of pressing on to higher ground. That should be our goal, no matter where we currently are. Whether in weak immaturity, in temporary struggle, in comfortable stability, or even in spiritual strength, the goal should always be to proceed further than where we are. (Philippians 3:12-14)

There are many reasons for my resuming. Writing has historically been a venue through which God has enabled me to use my spiritual gifts, and I miss that. I personally need reminders of truth, and making the effort to prepare things to share with others is one of the best ways for me to focus on helpful truth. I trust that God will use my writing of His truth as a means of edifying others. Ultimately, I desire to bring glory to God, something that I trust will be accomplished by all of the above.

One reason, other than having no energy, that I have not done much writing lately is that I am keenly aware that I am in the “during.” I have deeply sensed my own weakness, my challenges in remembering and processing truth. The battles have been, and often continue to be, very fierce. I’m not at the refined gold, the peaceful fruits of righteousness, or the firm establishment and maturity. In the big picture, that will never be fully true in this life, but in my current context, I am especially aware that I am still waiting for that divine culminating work. So to some extent, sharing seems hypocritical and shaky, because I know how incomplete and inconsistent the lessons and truths are. But I believe that God prompted me, so if you choose to read my posts, I hope that you will allow me to fight for truth personally through this means, and I trust that God will use it to encourage your heart as well. I realize that my lessons might be imperfect and that I might not always remember them myself, but by God’s grace, it is my desire to pursue higher ground. So read if you wish, evaluate and filter with Scripture, and take for yourself what is helpful and true.

Biblical Perspective on Death

Dying is part of life.

Every human must face death, and there is no escaping it. Since the entering of sin into the world, death is an inevitable factor. “A time to be born, and a time to die” (Ecclesiastes 3:2). It is God Himself who has established this penalty. “And as it is appointed unto men once to die” (Hebrews 9:27). Sooner or later, every person will face death. “Now the days of David drew nigh that he should die; and he charged Solomon his son, saying, I go the way of all the earth” (1 Kings 2:1-2). The Bible even reveals the approximate time frame for most people. “The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away” (Psalm 90:10). A Christian does not have to inordinately fight death or refuse to accept it. Although medical advances are nice, some groups or efforts seem to refuse to accept the reality that every person will die of something.

God controls life and death.

God alone is the giver of life. “The earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to all of them” (Nehemiah 9:6). God is the one who starts life, and God is the one who ends life. Ultimately this determination rests with a sovereign God. “The LORD kills and makes alive; He brings down to Sheol and raises up” (1 Samuel 2:6). Individuals can be assured that the time of their own death or that of a loved one is within the power and control of God; it is not a random twist of fate or a matter of chance. “My times are in thy hand” (Psalm 31:15). When death comes, it is the Creator of life who has determined when that life will end. “The LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away” (Job 1:21).

Sorrow is normal and elicits a human response.

There could be stoical people who reject emotion or others who want to be so unaffected by death that they don't express any sorrow. One biblical example might be misinterpreted to suggest such a detached reaction. When God predicted the death of Ezekiel’s wife, He instructed, “Behold, I take away from thee the desire of thine eyes with a stroke; yet neither shalt thou mourn nor weep, neither shall thy tears run down. Forbear to cry, make no mourning for the dead.” This, however, was not intended to be a standard response or practice. Ezekiel’s lack of mourning was a specific instruction designed to illustrate a focused truth of God for the people to whom Ezekiel was ministering. “Thus Ezekiel is unto you a sign” (Ezekiel 24:16-17&24). The sign was effective because it was so unusual.

I did not locate any specific instructions in the Bible for mourning, but there do seem to be some commonly established procedures. A perusal of Scripture would show a variety of associated actions, including weeping, sackcloth, fasting, and similar outward displays of sorrow; at least the most common of these seem to be accepted and appropriate normal responses within society. In the Old Testament, there was apparently an official period of mourning. The common practice may have been seven days. (Ex. Saul in 1 Samuel 31:13, Jacob (family only) in Genesis 50:10). It appears to have been longer for important people. (Ex. Moses - 30 days in Deuteronomy 34:8; Aaron - 30 days in Numbers 20:29; Jacob - 40 days (public) in Genesis 50:3). After a death it was appropriate for decisions and business to be postponed for a space of time (Genesis 50:4, 2 Samuel 11:27). Part of the human experience that is common to all is that there are appropriate times for sorrow. “A time to weep... a time to mourn” (Ecclesiastes 3:4). Jesus Himself was affected by the death of His cousin John and responded to the event. “When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart” (Matthew 14:13).

Peace is possible both before and after someone’s death.

When death is understood biblically, even with only the truths examined so far, it is possible to face or absorb death with a measure of peace. (This provision of peace increases with additional truth yet to be examined.) When Elijah was about to die, Elisha was repeatedly confronted by others who seemed disturbed at the impending event, but Elisha himself was at peace, even though he probably stood to lose the most. “And the sons of the prophets that were at Bethel came forth to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day? And he said, Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace” (2 Kings 2:3&5). Before David lost his child, he was greatly burdened, but after his child actually died, David transitioned to a condition of peace. “But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me” (2 Samuel 12:23). Paul faced his own impending death with an acceptance and peaceful evaluation of his life. “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith" (2 Timothy 4:6-7). The presence of genuine sorrow does not preclude an underlying realization of peace.

Comfort is possible, but must be chosen.

God is a God of comfort, and He gives comfort in every difficulty. Comfort is first of all a divine provision. “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation” (1 Corinthians 1:3-4). The verses in Ecclesiastes 3:2&4 that mention weeping and mourning also mention the opposites, which also exist and have appointed times when they are appropriate. Sorrow is not to last forever.

Comfort can be provided by another person and even by a change in life circumstances that provides other companionship to ease the pain regarding the person who has been lost. “And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebecca, and she became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his mother's death” (Genesis 24:67). Christians have the capacity to offer comfort to each other. God even supplies very appropriate words and a very appropriate topic that especially provides comfort, which is regarding the eternal state of believers. “Wherefore comfort one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:18).

There are people who do not choose to be comforted. This happened during the great national tragedy of the slaughter of infants in Israel. “In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not" (Matthew 2:18). The refusal to be comforted also happened to Jacob after he believed Joseph had been killed. “And all his sons and all his daughters rose up to comfort him; but he refused to be comforted; and he said, for I will go down into the grave unto my son mourning. Thus his father wept for him” (Genesis 37:35). In Jacob’s case, his long-term sorrow caused difficulties for the rest of his family, ultimately threatening their livelihood, because his intense sorrow hindered his willingness to make necessary decisions. There appears to be danger in not accepting appropriate comfort after an appropriate space of time.

Sorrow cannot interfere with following God.

One possible danger is in allowing sorrow to so affect the life that it paralyzes one's service to God. “And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead” (Matthew 8:21-22). Faithfulness to God cannot be discarded because of sorrow.

Not all deaths are equal.

Humans long for what they call fairness. It doesn't seem right when someone is taken before his time. We have the idea that all deaths should be at the end of a prosperous and lengthy life and that no one should die at a young age. God, however, does not have the same plan for each individual. When Peter questioned John's future, “Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? Follow thou me” (John 21:22). Jesus presented the possibility that John's lifespan and death might be very different from Peter’s, which in fact it was. Indeed, God's plan was not the same for all the apostles, and it varied greatly even within the same family. James and John were brothers and both apostles included in Jesus’ inner circle; James died within a few years of this incident, but John lived to be an old man. It is believed that all of the other apostles were martyred sometime between the deaths of those two brothers.

In addition to timing and means of death, there is also variety in the impact on others. Not all deaths have equal impact. Some Israelites, like Moses and Aaron, were mourned by the entire nation for an extended period of time, while many others were mourned primarily by their own family alone. Dorcas was mourned by many because of the good deeds she had done for them (Acts 9:39). The extent of mourning might not be only because of what the person has done, but of the potential impact on those left behind. The widow who had lost her only son mourned deeply (Luke 7:12). At the other end of the spectrum, King Jehoram was so evil that no one mourned his death (2 Chronicles 21:19-20).

Not all sorrow is equal.

Quite logically, the extent of sorrow will vary depending on the relationship to the one who has passed. A closer relationship would tend to produce greater sorrow. A few relationships seem to be especially troubling. Losing a child is difficult, especially when that is an only child. “And they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his first born” (Zechariah 12:10). The loss of a mother also seems to be of particular significance. “I bowed down heavily, as one that mournest for his mother” (Psalm 35:14). This may not be a comprehensive list, and these are clearly generalizations that could vary between individuals, but they would seem to largely hold true for much of society.

Death is not the end.

The primary hope and comfort for Christians is in knowing that physical death is more of a beginning than an end. When a Christian leaves this earth, he immediately enters the presence of God. “Willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). Physical death is merely the steppingstone to eternal life, and separation from people is traded for union with God. “And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God” (Job 19:26).

This eternal life with God is incredibly superior to life on this earth. Those in God's presence cease experiencing the pain and sorrow of earth. “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away” (Revelation 21:4). The change is so dramatic and so freeing from the defilement of this world that death is actually a victory for the Christian. “The dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory” (1 Corinthians 15:52-54). It is no wonder then that Paul could say, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).

These truths about the eternal blissful state of union with God are what give hope to a Christian when he faces death or loss. “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope” (1 Thessalonians 4:13). There is earthly sorrow, but it is sorrow tempered by and actually swallowed up by hope.

Reunions will happen.

Even when Christians say goodbye on this earth, it is not truly goodbye. It is only a temporary absence. David had hope of seeing his child again. “But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me” (2 Samuel 12:23). We will be reunited with those who have gone before us, and this reunion is amazing in the fact that it will never end. We will be together in heaven forever. “Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:17).

God has a perspective regarding death.

God does not want anyone to die without Him, as this yields no positive result. “As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked” (Ezekiel 33:11). On the other hand, it is a beautiful thing to Him when someone who knows Him dies. God welcomes that person into His presence. “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints” (Psalm 72:14).

For humans, an event of death may seem to be the major picture, but for God, a death event is only part of the picture. Death is often a tool in the hand of God to accomplish even greater things. A Christian’s death can be used to inspire and encourage others and to point others toward God. Such was the case for Peter. “This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God” (John 21:19). This has often happened throughout history, such as in the case of the five missionaries killed in Ecuador, or in multiple other cases where a respected leader has died, and others have arisen to fill the hole that is left. Just as God works through other life experiences and trials, God also works through sorrow and death to strengthen the faith of His children and to draw others to Himself. “Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent you may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him” (John 11:14-15). When a Christian dies, God is certainly using that to accomplish His purposes. This is not heartlessly using people or insensitively inflicting pain; rather, it is a means of bringing the positive results that Christians themselves would desire if they understood the full perspective.

The bottom line is that God is God. He is supreme, and He always knows and does the right thing to accomplish the right purposes. It is easy for people to think that their lives are their own, and this mindset underlies any wrong thinking or sense of unfairness regarding death. In reality, everything in our lives from beginning to end should be for our Savior. “For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s” (Romans 14:8). This perspective allows us to accept God's plan whether or not it makes sense or seems right to us.

Earth-Shattering Quotations

Sometimes someone says something that changes history or that recognizes a new era. At times these speakers led and changed public opinion, and at times they were simply aware of the reality of what was happening. They were in the right position at the right moment in time to make statements of phenomenal import. These quotations are insightful, bold, defining, trend-setting, sobering, foreboding, inspiring, exciting, motivational. Consider these few examples.

"Having undertaken, for the glory of God, and advancement of the Christian faith, and honor of our King and Country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virginia, do by these presents solemnly and mutually, in the presence of God, and one of another, covenant and combine our selves together." (William Bradford)

"That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be, Free and Independent states; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown; and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved." (Richard Henry Lee)

"In my opinion, [slavery agitation] will not cease, until a crisis shall have been reached, and passed." (Abraham Lincoln)

"I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7, 1941, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire." (Franklin D. Roosevelt)

"I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth." (John F. Kennedy)

These quotations by men mark pivotal moments in American history: the establishment of a colony by the Pilgrims, the movement for independence from Britain, the impending threat of civil war, the entry into World War II, and the initiation of serious space exploration. Can you imagine what it must have been like to be there and hear those words? To realize the implication of what they meant? To realize that life would change irrevocably after that moment?

There are quotations by men in the Bible which also note monumental events. I recently read two that are absolutely staggering in terms of impact. These were watershed moments - unexpected realizations of something that had long been awaited or that had never been anticipated.

Situation #1: The Jews were under Roman bondage. Many had returned to their homeland, but their kingdom had been destroyed hundreds of years before. The Jews had lived in slavery, separated from their country, facing difficulty and sometimes the threat of destruction. Their religious practice, their self-government, and their culture were all impacted. They faced oppression and restrictions, they lived with some level of fear and uncertainty, and their native tongue was no longer their primary language.

In these difficult circumstances, there were some Jews who had hope. They studied the Scriptures, and they found numerous prophecies of a coming redeemer. They believed a day was coming when their culture, worship, and nation would be restored to its former glory. The history of the Jews is filled with waiting. So they waited. They had waited so long that it may have seemed that the deliverer would never come. How many generations had come and gone without seeing the answer? There was no imminent expectation that their own generation would be any different.

Then one day a man named Andrew was out with his leader, John. John preached repentance. John spoke of hope. John pointed out a Man as special. Andrew and his friend followed the Man. They listened to His teaching. They formed their conclusions. Andrew went to his brother Peter and spoke these words: "We have found the Messiah" (John 1:41).

Can you imagine hearing that message? For centuries, millennia even, Jews had waited. They had hoped. They had died without seeing the answer. Now - NOW - here - in their lifetimes - the answer had come! The Messiah was here! They had found Him! Everything was different!

Situation #2: Jesus had lived, died, risen again, and returned to heaven. The church of believing Jews was growing astronomically. People were being saved by the thousands. Churches were being formed. People were being taught. They were loving and helping each other. They were even experiencing persecution.

All of this meant that salvation had come. The Truth had come. Many had accepted the Truth and were following Him faithfully. The Jews who believed now had a new identity, a new unity, a new purpose. They now understood what had previously been hidden to them. Their partial knowledge had turned to fuller comprehension. To be a Christian was to be an enlightened and believing Jew.

Then chaos threatened. Peter, one of the apostles, went to a family of the Gentiles and preached the gospel to them. He baptized them as followers of the Messiah. In essence, he was treating them as members of the church. This did not sit well with the other Jewish leaders. They demanded an explanation. Peter explained God's very clear leading and the evidence that God was extending the Truth to people outside the Jewish race. The early church leaders responded: "Well then, God has granted to the Gentiles also the repentance that leads to life" (Acts 11:18).

What a statement! Who would have anticipated that God would extend salvation outside the Jewish nation? The Jews had always been His chosen people. The other nations had always been pagans - rejected, godless, ignorant. By all indications, they were under God's wrath. But now He was extending salvation to them! They were welcome to believe the Gospel and follow God! From that day forward, everything has changed for those who were formerly condemned and without hope. We were included! We can be redeemed!

Glory to God for creating earth-shattering moments and for allowing men to recognize them! Praise to God for the wonderful truth He has freely given! Thank God for including us in His eternal plan!

Prosperity Gospel Meets Real Life

What is Christianity supposed to look like? Some teach a "prosperity gospel," the idea that a Christian's life should be externally successful - free from suffering, illness, or debt. Others reject this on biblical grounds, but still believe a spiritualized prosperity gospel. Instead of "health and wealth" in a physical or material sense, they expect spiritual, mental, and emotional prosperity. They expect their spirit to remain calm, strong, and in control regardless of obstacles. They want to proceed smoothly on a pretty continuous basis, without being stretched beyond their internal limitations.

The Bible challenges believers to strive for internal stability. Probably this expectation is the ideal of victorious, mature Christianity (Galatians 5:22-23). Because all Christians are human, however, and live in frail bodies on a fallen planet, all Christians experience trouble (Psalm 34:19). All trials are not identical. Some trials are primarily external - Joseph unfairly thrown into prison or Job with an intense illness. Some trials are primarily internal - Paul's burden of caring for all the churches or Abraham waiting for decades to see God's promise. Trials that are external create internal challenges; Job (one of the most godly men ever) is a prime example. It can be hard to separate these. 

Consider the ongoing pandemic. A Christian's situation may be reasonably stable in the midst of all the chaos. His family is fine. His health is fine. His job is fine. His finances are fine. Even in that "fine" condition, this person would probably say it has been and continues to be a difficult year.

Even someone who is doing fine externally in these crazy days has related internal challenges. The "big" things are okay, but the external creates constant pressures and ramifications that affect the internal. If the external isn't okay - a parent is very sick with the virus, his job is about to be shut down, he can't pay his rent - the internal challenges are even greater. Both of these men may desire spiritualized prosperity - internal calmness and control. Probably neither of them is fully experiencing that.

Some of the issue is lack of spiritual maturity. Probably both men should grow and learn to respond better. On the other hand, it is important to remember that "life is hard" doesn't always mean something primarily external. Sometimes "life is hard" means mental and emotional struggles, even spiritual battles (II Corinthians 4:8). Satan has a diverse bag of tricks, and Christians are constantly beset by spiritual attacks (I Peter 5:8). The expectation of constant spiritualized prosperity is just as vulnerable as the expectation of constant physical prosperity.

Internal battles should be treated much the same way as external battles. (Yes, there is a distinction because some internal battles are clearly sin or maturity issues, but we don't always know where that distinction lies, nor does the existence of a spiritual issue negate the fact that Satan wants to use it for his purposes. The thrust of this post is not to deny legitimate spiritual issues, but rather to consider that some trials are internal by nature.)

Saying the right thing is important. In external trials, it can be relatively easy to say, "I know that God is in control" or "Life is really hard right now, but I choose to trust God." These are also the appropriate things to say in internal trials. When faced with difficult internal struggles, the humble response of yielding is just as important as in external struggles. It is still right to say, "God is good and right, and I will submit to His plan." (I Peter 5:6; Psalm 119:68, Psalm 27:14, Psalm 31:14-15)

Doing the right thing is also important (Job 6:10). Whether the trial is external or internal, some responses are essential. Reading the Bible more. Praying more fervently. Staying in church as much as possible. Having spiritual conversations with other Christians. Avoiding temptations.

For either type of problem, endurance is needed (Hebrews 10:35-36). One foot in front of the other. One more step. One more day. Faithfulness for as long as it takes. Not quitting.

For either type of problem, faith is needed (Hebrews 11:6). The fact that there are internal pressures does not mean that someone is not pleasing God. They actually provide a way to please God by maintaining faith in Him.

Difficult seasons of life can be like a treacherous swamp. The Christian finds himself with danger on every side, as far as his eye can see. Quicksand, miry mud, hidden roots, dangerous hanging branches, threatening weather, approaching darkness, wild animals, physical injury. As he lies helpless, a Guide comes to him and says, "There is a safe place outside this swamp, and I know how to get there." The poor man exercises faith. He trusts his Guide. He says to himself, "I believe there is an exit. I believe the Guide can safely take me there." Then he simply follows. One step at a time, he keeps walking. He may walk for hours or days without seeing the exit. He may be only one step away from the exit and might still remain unable to see it. No matter how impossible it seems to keep going, he simply trusts and takes the next step. And one day it ends, and he is safe.

In internal struggles as well as external, the suffering believer needs to just keep doing the right thing. Keep having faith in God. Keep humbly submitting. Keep acknowledging God's goodness. Keep leaning on God. Difficult internal struggles don't mean "this isn't the way the Christian life is supposed to be" any more than difficult external struggles do. They do mean that the spiritual battle is real. They do provide opportunities for growth. They do call for obedience, endurance, and faith.

Internal battles should end in some level of victory and growth, in which the believer is better prepared for the next one. But there will be a next one, because internal struggles are a common part of the Christian life. (I Corinthians 10:13)

The Impossible Through Prayer

How much does prayer matter? Can the prayer of man change anything? James says it can. "The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much" (James 5:16).

Exactly what is "much"? How "big" can we pray? Will prayer only bring about results that are likely to happen anyway? Or could they bring about something that is highly unlikely? Even impossible? James gives an example.

"Elijah ... prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the earth for three years and six months" (James 5:17). The story is recounted in I Kings, where Elijah announced, "As the LORD, the God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, surely there shall be neither dew nor rain these years, except by my word" (I Kings 17:1). 

The Bible confirms that there was "no rain in the land" (I Kings 17:7). The brook where God temporarily supplied for Elijah dried up (I Kings 17:7). The resulting "famine was severe" (I Kings18:2). Prophets hiding in a cave had to be supplied with water (I Kings 18:4).

Three and a half years with no rain. That's pretty intense. But is it within the realm of common experience? How much of an aberration was this?

The Dust Bowl (1931-1939) is considered the worst drought in the last millennium in North America. Several years of drought (1930-1931, 1934, 1936, 1939-1940) mixed with years of more normal rainfall in the Great Plains. Arkansas and Oklahoma were among the most affected. For eleven years (1930-1940), the average annual rainfall for each state was 23 inches, with 18 being the least amount of rainfall in any one year. In the worst drought we can imagine in our country, it still rained at least 18 inches even in the worst year.

How does that compare to Israel, where Elijah's drought occurred? Average annual rainfall in Israel is about one-third what it is for Arkansas and Oklahoma. Yes, there are dry times in Israel. Average rainfall from June through September is zero. But it rains the rest of the year, adding up to an average 7.29 inches per year. No rain at all for three and a half years? That is pretty incredible, since on average, they would get 25.5 inches in that time frame.

Is there anywhere in the world that doesn't get some rainfall each year? There are some very arid deserts, including places where, in fact, there is no known rainfall for decades or centuries on end. Those locations are rare, and are not inhabited. The driest inhabited places are pretty dry, but they still get minimal amounts of rain. My research found nine locations averaging less than a half inch of rain per year. (Aoulef, Algeria - .48; Pelican Point, Namibia - .32; Iquique, Chile - .2; Wadi Halfa, Sudan - .096; Ica, Peru - .09; Luxor, Egypt - .034; Aswan, Egypt - .0338; Al-Kufrah, Libya - .0338; Arica, Chile - .03). In three and a half years, the driest of these most extreme places on earth would get a tenth of an inch of rain. How much did Israel get in that time frame? Zero.

There is no way to interpret these statistics that would make zero rainfall possible for that amount of time. And if the extended drought were not amazing enough, at the end of those years, Elijah "prayed again, and the sky poured rain and the earth produced its fruit" (James 5:18).

Even though there was not a cloud in the sky, Elijah told the king, "There is the sound of the roar of a heavy shower" (I Kings 18:41). Then, after announcing this to the king, Elijah prayed seven times until his servant reported "a cloud as small as a man's hand is coming up from the sea" (I Kings 18:44). "In a little while the sky grew black with clouds and wind, and there was a heavy shower" (I Kings 18:45). The man whose prayers had stopped the rains for three and a half years also prayed for an abundance of rain, which arrived almost immediately.

Yes, God did amazing things through the prayers of prophets. But God did not inspire James 5:16 for the benefit of first-century (or twenty-first century) prophets. He gave it to the New Testament church. The illustration of Elijah was intended to reveal how much prayer can accomplish.

In fact, Elijah's prayer was not effective just because he was a prophet. The Bible is quick to point out that "Elijah was a man with a nature like ours" (James 5:17). He was a frail human living in a finite body, just like we are. He was like us. Elijah had his share of struggles, just as we do.

Our prayers can accomplish much. There is other biblical teaching that guides our prayers, so this verse is not a guarantee that we will always see the results we expect. But it is an encouragement to pray, even for impossible things, because "The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much."

Malachi Responses in a Chronicles World

When has our country ever been needier than it is right now, under the situations of these past weeks and months? Probably never in my lifetime. My heart has been heavy this week as I have considered the current rioting, although my ultimate conclusions also include the virus situation.

My primary reaction regarding the protests is that I don't understand. I don't understand how these protests can be productive; they seem only destructive. I don't doubt that there are legitimate concerns or that there are sincere people seeking to address those concerns, but the current methods are doing more harm than good.

This situation may be exactly what is being universally touted - that a racist officer acted with excessive violence, without mercy denying breath to a man calling out for reprieve. In that case, proper justice should be taken based on evidence. But there are also enough questions, in my opinion, to present the possibility that the situation was not as bad as it seems. If that is the case, it will be too late to reverse the loss of lives, businesses, and peace.

Why do I suggest this unpopular possibility? Because I expect police officers to act like police officers, criminals like criminals, and upstanding citizens like upstanding citizens. That's not always true; there are bad cops. There are also good cops who make bad decisions. Rather than stemming from hatred, I think many similar situations are simply due to people (on both sides) making bad decisions in intense situations. I'm not arguing for who is right or wrong in this case or in the broader picture, but just saying that currently imperfect people are hurting and in turmoil.

The underlying problem is sin. Whether that is racism by cops or citizens, or whether that is criminal activity and disregard for the law, it is sin. It is primarily a heart issue. The answer is the gospel. Criminals, police officers, hate groups, and ordinary citizens all need the gospel. Only then can hearts, lives, and behaviors be changed. Only then can healing happen.

I don't understand racism. Maybe that means I'm sheltered. I  do realize there are hateful people, maybe more than I realize, but I don't think most Americans care about skin color. I have had co-workers and students from multiple ethnic backgrounds. I have lived in a foreign country, ministering to and alongside people of other ethnicities. I have loved those people. Racism seems foreign to me because I grew up with Christianity and in Christian circles. That's the point. The answer is God. If others shared my Christian context, there wouldn't be racism.

Here's where my thinking on the riots coincides with my thinking about coronavirus. There are many people in our country who need the gospel. It is the only thing that will change their lives and hearts, the only thing that will provide answers. That is true whether the issue is hatred and racism or whether the issue is fear, anxiety, or depression.

Many have tried during these months to direct people toward God. Just with myself and people in my church, there have been multiple conversations, phone calls, letters, tracts, social media posts and videos, publically-published letters and sermons, and other creative attempts to show God's love and to direct people to the hope and salvation found in God.

But where are the responses? If people are so needy, and if the answer is being shared, why aren't people responding? If these troubling times are not enough to turn people's hearts to God, then what would it take to get people's attention? If not now, when?

Nearly everyone thinks he is ok. People believe in God. Religion is so common in our culture that, without extended and systematic study, people don't realize their belief is insufficient or misguided. The remaining people either don't care or are angry at God. They blame Him for everything, or they deny He exists, and they dismiss all religious talk before they have the chance to hear enough truth to impact them. I am reminded of how God sent His prophets many times to Israel, but they would not hear. (II Chronicles 36:15-16, Jeremiah 35:13-16). People today give Malachi-type responses. They ask questions, sometimes sincere and sometimes belligerent. What's wrong with us? Why would God reject us? Don't we believe in Him? Haven't we gone to church? Don't we try to live right? What do you mean, we aren't good enough?

We believe that people are hurting in these days, but these "hurting" people are nebulous and nameless. Are they your co-workers or neighbors? They don't seem to be. Are they the people in the riots, people who are suffering from injustice and can't find a way out? Do you think they want to hear the gospel? In both groups, people either think they already have religion or they want nothing to do with it.

Truly, Jesus was right when He said, "For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it" (Matthew 7:14). As I pondered a friend's heartfelt Facebook post sharing her beliefs as well as the many efforts of others, my heart was gripped to pray for these gospel efforts to have impact. Yes, many will choose the broad path. They will refuse to get enough Bible knowledge to even understand the truth. But not all. Some will choose the narrow way.

How can we reach those people? Each of us have people in our sphere of influence that others don't have. Who among us knows the protestors, the police, the hurting inner city people? If we don't have contact with them, perhaps the ones who are most needy, how can we reach them? Those cities, neighborhoods, gangs, and groups seem like closed communities. What can we do?

Here are the answers I thought of. Pray for inner cities. Pray for workers to go there. Pray for pastors who are in those cities to be true to the Word and to preach the gospel. Pray for people who are searching to find good churches rather than empty religion. Pray for people's hearts to be touched. Pray for key leaders within their communities and groups to be saved. Pray for people in social services to have real impact, sharing Christ and not social help. Mentor if that possibility is available. For the needy who are in your sphere of influence, pray for God to draw them. Then live like Christians ought to live to show people there is a difference between believing in God and being a Christian. May God have mercy on our land. May He call people to Himself. May He heal the hurting.

Candid Admissions Regarding COVID-19

Most of us have been actively dealing with the COVID-19 situation for nearly two months now, and it often seems there is no end in sight. The hardest thing for me has been isolation. Even though I am working, I have been separated from those who are most special to me. When I have needed them most, I have missed my church family, which is the heart of my support network.

That drives me deeper to God. He is the best source of comfort, help, and strength, and He has been dear to me. I wish I could say I have spent precious hours in His Word. I am finding verses to help me, for sure, but in general the added pressures of work and living have limited my energy for extended reading and study. I'm spending more time talking to God, working through things, letting Him know about my day and my thoughts and struggles. I have thrived most on music, listening to and playing hymns. There is something about music that is soothing and comforting, and it helps me find the words that my heart wants to say. Sometimes I just sit and listen to hymn after hymn, allowing the truths they express to envelop me.

The isolation from church has in some ways contributed to increasing closeness. I have talked with church friends almost daily, sometimes praying, sometimes crying, sometimes sharing, sometimes listening. I have had cards, texts, emails, and Facebook interaction. I've had more face-to-face contacts than I would have expected. I've had people bring me food, acquire and deliver medical supplies, and offer help. When I talk with church members, they often mention others who have also ministered to them. Seeing the multiple ways in which we have been able to care, support, and interact with each other even while separated makes me love and appreciate my church even more.

My early response to the virus was disbelief. The far-away situation seemed like it never would affect us. The initial responses seemed extreme, even shocking, an extreme overreaction. I still pretty much feel that way, but I also see the difficult position leaders are in when the American public has the unreasonable expectation that leaders should prevent all deaths. The attempt to accomplish that has been tumultuous and damaging.

When things got crazy, I quickly realized that my primary challenge is figuring out how to live life as it currently exists. I don't mean the practical things like grocery shopping; I mean responding mentally, emotionally, spiritually. In order not to be completely overwhelmed, I need God desperately, and I need His Word desperately. My primary focus in life has become seeking inner stability. Sometimes I do okay with that, but lots of times I feel overwhelmed - stabilized enough to continue on with life, but certainly not comfortable.

I have sometimes seen the need for humor or for something ordinary to temporarily distract from the constant impact of the virus. Sometimes there is the need to commiserate with friends, hearing their frustrations and fears and sharing my own. And yes, sometimes there is frustration with leaders and restrictions.

People respond differently. Sometimes that is based on their situation in life. For example, some people are home right now with their families and with extra time to relax. As far as life goes, they are surrounded by love and even having special times that are helping them to get through the difficulties. Since I don't have that, it is the primary focus of my interactions with others. Whether by phone or Facebook, I am primarily seeking to support and be supported because those are my only venues to do that.

Those who already have those basic needs met often come to the phone or to Facebook with other needs and responses. If they have time off, they also have plenty of time to be exposed to and consider other aspects of this difficult time. May I refer to these as verbal barrages, political arguments, and conspiracy theories? Frankly, those things are outside my capacity to deal with and provide more overwhelming pressure. To me, it doesn't matter how this started; it did start. My focus is on dealing with it.

Sometimes I call people to check on them or just to chat, but it is likely that if I call, it is either because I am overwhelmed or because I know I soon will be without interaction. I can't handle being more overwhelmed by the content of the phone call. Same with Facebook. I want to see friends' posts because they provide some level of connection with people, but the rants and conspiracy theories drag me down.

I know people are on Facebook for various reasons. Some use it primarily as a political platform. I usually don't follow those people, because I am there primarily for connections with people. Lately, political-type posts have been increasing, and I'm not saying no one should share those things, but it does make it harder for me to have a support network that doesn't overwhelm me. I want to have what I described earlier in this post - a drawing closer rather than a pushing apart. Sadly, I feel like I'm temporarily losing some of my friends when I need them most.

We all have to deal with pressures and frustrations. Some people are responding with shootings and public threats - people who wouldn't normally do such things, but they are currently pushed by overwhelming pressures that cloud their responses. I understand that my friends also have the same pressures; rather than shooting people, they are speaking or posting frustration. So I cut them some slack, but God has taught me hard lessons that make me prefer hurt and tears over frustration and anger. I realize this world is not perfect, and that can be upsetting, but I'm a stranger here, trying to reflect God during my earthly sojourn. I need support in doing that.

God Doesn't Run Out

"They drink their fill of the abundance of Your house; and You give them to drink of the river of Your delights" (Psalm 36:8).

There are things God never runs out of. Even after many centuries, His supplies are more than sufficient. In spite of the millions who have drawn from His storehouses, He still has plenty to spare.

One reason for the unending supply is that God Himself lasts forever. "Before the mountains were born or You gave birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God" (Psalm 90:2). Because God always has existed and always will exist, He can always provide.

Since God never changes, the resources and character that He had in time past continue in the present and will continue in the future. "Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow" (James 1:17).

So what does God never run out of? What supplies of God are always sufficient?

God never runs out of love. "I have loved you with an everlasting love" (Jeremiah 31:3).

God never runs out of goodness. "How great is Your goodness, which You have stored up for those who fear You" (Psalm 31:19).

God never runs out of comfort or hope. "Who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope" (II Thessalonians 2:16).

God never runs out of compassion. "His compassions never fail. They are new every morning" (Lamentations 3:22-23).

God never runs out of grace. "So that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus" (Ephesians 2:7).

God never runs of lovingkindness (tender mercies). "Remember, O LORD, Your compassion and Your lovingkindnesses, for they have been from of old" (Psalm 25:6).

God never runs out of truth. "The truth of the LORD is everlasting" (Psalm 117:2).

God never runs out of faithfulness. "Great is Your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3:23).

God never runs out of righteousness. "My righteousness will be forever" (Isaiah 51:8).

God never runs out of light. "You will have the LORD for an everlasting light" (Isaiah 60:20).

God never runs out of the ability to bear burdens. "Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden" (Psalm 68:19).

God never runs out of the capacity to be a refuge. "The eternal God is a dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms" (Deuteronomy 33:27).

God never runs out of counsel. "The counsel of the LORD stands forever" (Psalm 33:11).

God never runs out of His status as King. "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever" (Psalm 45:6).

God never runs out of His dominion over the entire earth. "His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all the dominions will serve and obey Him" (Daniel 7:27).

God never runs out of power. "And what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe" (Ephesians 1:19).

God never runs out of strength. "In GOD the LORD, we have an everlasting Rock" (Isaiah 26:4).

Christ's redemptive sacrifice for us never runs out. "But He, having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, sat down at the right hand of God" (Hebrews 10:12).

God's salvation never runs out. "He who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life" (John 5:24).

Christ's priesthood never runs out. "The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind, 'You are a priest forever'" (Psalm 110:4).

Christ's intercession for believers never runs out. "Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them" (Hebrews 7:25).

The Holy Spirit's ministry never runs out. "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever" (John 14:16).

God's Word never runs out. "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever" (Isaiah 40:8).

God's promises never run out. "So that by two unchangeable things [a promise and an oath] in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge would have strong encouragement to take hold of the hope set before us" (Hebrews 6:18).

Is there something you need? God can take care of daily provision. "If God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you?" (Matthew 6:30). Do you need something deeper than daily provision? "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19).

"I have been young and now I am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his descendants begging bread" (Psalm 37:25).

God has everything He needs to supply everything you need!

How Deep to Hunker

"Hunker down." "Stay at home." These are the instructions we keep hearing. How deeply should we hunker?

1) Hunker deeply enough to decompress. Whether serving on the front lines, working an essential job, homeschooling, or being constantly confined, almost everyone is experiencing extra pressure.

It is important to deal appropriately with those pressures. For most people, that means a certain amount of solitude to devote to activities (or inactivity) that relieve pressure. Don't remain so constantly busy that there is no time to rest. "And He said to them, 'Come away by yourselves to a secluded place and rest a while'" (Mark 6:31).

2) Hunker deeply enough to profit with God. Challenging times are especially suited for spiritual growth. "Knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing" (James 1:3-4). God wants us to draw near to Him, to grow in Him, and to seek Him as our source of help.

These goals require time with God in prayer and in His Word. Some people have plenty of time available for this. Others, who have limited time, still need it and must find times alone with God. It would be a tragedy if Christians went through this time of trial without learning and growing. "O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly; my soul thirsts for You" (Psalm 63:1).

3) Hunker deeply enough to profit with family. Time with children is limited and quickly fleeting. There is so much to teach them and so many ways to influence them. Soon they will be going out on their own. They will need a firm foundation of love and of Biblical training.

For many families, these days provide a priceless gift of unexpected time together. Because of their difficulty, they are especially suited for teaching important life lessons. "You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up" (Deuteronomy 6:7). Don't let this God-given opportunity pass without profit for your family.

In hunkering down for personal well-being, spiritual pursuits, and family enrichment, it is possible to hunker too deeply. It is possible to forget those outside your small circle. These days cannot be total isolation from anyone outside the walls of your home.

4) Don't hunker so deeply that you neglect fellow church members. Even though you are temporarily apart, you still need each other. God gave the church as a place where all believers can be part of a family. The New Testament is packed with "one another" instructions, and those instructions are still important. "Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing" (I Thessalonians 5:11).

A few churches have unusual accommodations for services that allow members to see each other distantly, and some make it possible digitally, but many churches have no visual contact. There must then be contact through other ways - Facebook, emails, phone calls, texts, video calls, regular mail, and meeting physical needs where necessary. Those who are most alone especially need support. Those who are elderly, perhaps technologically challenged and with fewer contacts, need the support of their church. For some people, church is their most important social interaction, and they have already gone weeks without it.

5) Don't hunker so deeply that you forget your pastor. Pastors are faithfully supporting and encouraging their people. They are continuing to bring the Word in very appropriate sermons. They are probably making more phone calls than just about anyone else in the church, trying to check on people. They are working to meet needs of which they are aware. They are praying for their congregations.

Pastors are doing all of this without the benefit of interaction or communication. Many are preaching via video to an empty room. (Some, whose churches lack technology, are not even able to do that.) Pastors are not seeing facial responses, they aren't hearing "amens," they aren't getting feedback as people leave, they aren't hearing people share their needs or tell how a sermon impacted them. The pastor has a solemn duty to meet spiritual needs. "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account" (Hebrews 13:17). God can direct pastors even when feedback is limited, but interactions with their congregations provide helpful insights. Help your pastor do his job effectively by letting him know how things are going and what needs and burdens you have. Show him proper esteem by finding ways to let him know of his effective ministry to you.

6) Don't hunker so deeply that you forget the needy. People around the world are hurting, scared, confused, and have many other issues. These are great days for the gospel. The means of interacting with people are severely curtailed, but there are some opportunities, and those will increase as restrictions gradually lift.

Pray for missionaries (and reach out to them). They have unprecedented opportunities in many places around the world. Instead of being part of the chaos that confronts your co-workers, neighbors, families, and friends, be a source of peace. Show Christian love by meeting practical needs where possible. More importantly, display a testimony that shows you have something different in your life - something real - that can help in difficulty. "Always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you" (I Peter 3:15).

In some aspects, the hunkering down is a blessing, as it provides opportunities for rest, communion with God, and increased interaction with family. Enjoy the blessings, but don't forget about those outside your circle. Interact and be a blessing for the good of the church and the gospel. Hunker, but don't disappear.

Practical Tips for Difficult Days

In the past month, life has changed dramatically. Many people find themselves facing challenges and frustrations they did not anticipate. I've compiled a list of ideas to help in these difficult days. Perhaps this list is weeks late, but maybe there are a few tips that can help through the weeks that remain.

1) Acknowledge the reality of the situation. There is a sense of national tragedy and world impact. There is legitimate loss in the lives of individuals. Many plans have been dashed and many disappointments introduced within a short space of time. It is normal to feel those losses. The body, mind, and spirit are interdependent; when one is weak or particularly challenged, the others are also affected. Some people are physically afflicted with illness or increased work demands, some mentally afflicted by information and decisions, and some spiritually/emotionally afflicted by isolation and separation from normal support such as church. All of these have impact, and it is unrealistic to expect no effect from what really are difficult days.

2) Limit the junk. There is already a continual impact on life. 24/7 news coverage and analysis does not help. It is necessary to get enough information to be informed about expectations and proper procedures, but it isn't healthy to be immersed in coronavirus coverage. Turn off the news. Stop reading and spreading Facebook rants. Don't read every possible article and story.

3) Do something calming. Read, cook, play games, sing, work on a project, do art, write poetry, decorate. Give yourself time and opportunities to lower your stress level through helpful activities.

4) Do something to release energy and frustration. If you have increased work pressures, if home schooling is a challenge, or if staying at home is making you crazy, you need to release that in safe ways. Seek physical activity that releases those frustrations. (There are scientific terms for this.) Do yard work, clean the house, do repairs, exercise, play an active game, develop back yard sports.

5) Sleep. Our bodies need sleep, especially in trying times. This isn't the time to stay up all night talking, reading, or watching TV. Don't oversleep, but give your body proper rest.

6) Laugh. Laughter is a gift from God and helps to alleviate tension and negative feelings. See the humor in situations that are currently out of proportion. Remember humorous times from the past. Share humor with family. Take in light-hearted input to counteract all the negativity; this might not be the time for a steady diet of war movies, but maybe Lucille Ball or Dick Van Dyke would be appropriate.

7) Connect with others as best as you can. Make this a special family time, doing activities together, talking with your spouse, teaching your children. Don't forget those outside your immediate family. Reach out to others. If you are alone, pick up the phone. Call people. Do video chats if possible so that you see faces.

8) Love. In difficult days, we especially need love. Hugs, touching, and even verbal expressions have much benefit. Cuddle extra with your kids. Hold hands. Do something special, maybe something creative for others in your house. Encourage others. If you are alone, this is harder, but seek ways to share love with others. Make cards, make phone calls, pray together, really talk and really listen. Be thoughtful and especially kind in the words you are able to share by phone or mail. And if you have to substitute hugs with a pet or stuffed animal temporarily, imagine who you want it to be.

9) Seek to learn and grow. God doesn't waste anything. He has purposes for you beyond simply enduring until it is over. Trials are intended to bring maturity. Don't stagnate. Don't drift away from God, even though you can't be in church. God can do His work in your heart, helping you to think and evaluate correctly, helping you to become more stabilized in your spirit, helping you to understand His truth more deeply.

10) Look for the bigger picture. There is life beyond coronavirus, both currently and when life returns to normal. Look for God's plan. Does He have work to do in your heart? Is this an opportunity for family adjustments that should be made? Can this draw your church closer together? Can this provide opportunities for the gospel? Can this open hearts of people around the world to turn to God? Is God using this as a wakeup call to Christians and to the lost, a time to re-evaluate and re-focus?

11) Choose verses to remember. Biblical input can and should be more than a single verse, but it can be helpful to have a few special verses that can be focused on and easily remembered throughout the day. Morning devotions can wear off, and frequent reminders are needed. Write a verse down to carry with you. Post verses in prominent places. Memorize. Meditate.

12) Pray for help. It's not wrong to ask for help, especially from God. He wants to help you. He honors humility and responds with grace. Pray for physical needs, social needs, practical needs, emotional needs, spiritual needs. Often change and help will come just because you ask.

13) Don't forget music. With churches closed or online, music may be limited or non-existent. Sing. If you play an instrument, get it out. Focus on special and meaningful songs, and play them over and over, allowing their truth to minister to you. Pay attention to the words.

14) Don't underestimate God. When the human spirit is struggling, and even when there seems to be no help from normal sources, God can be all the help you need. God can't give physical hugs, but intense time with Him can unusually replace what is normally considered a need to be met by others. If you are cut off from church and friends, separated from family, and even completely alone, God can be all that you need.

Psalm 124

I wrote this poem several years ago, and it seems like a good message for today.

Reflection on Psalm 124 (Altered Outcome)

Without God on my side,
I'd have nowhere to hide.
Angry men marching hard, drawing near,
Would have swallowed me up with a cheer.

Without God on my side,
All my hope would have died.
Raging streams swirling fast, mounting tall,
Would have covered my head, ending all.

Without God on my side,
I in vain would have cried.
Cunning nets lying 'round, circling tight,
Would have snared me and finished the fight.

But with God on my side -
My Creator and Guide -
Loving help rushes in, standing strong,
And delivers my soul from all wrong.

"Had it not been the LORD who was on our side..." (v. 1&2) - absolute disaster and ruin would have happened.

But ... "Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth" (v. 8). Nothing is too hard for Him. He can do what no one else can, and He can save when no one else is capable.

Who's In Control?

Individual lives sometimes spin out of control. Families, churches, businesses, cities, or governments can lose control. Sometimes the whole world seems out of control. When no one seems capable of reining in the chaos, is the world under random chance, left to fate and coincidence, or is there someone in control?

The book of Daniel powerfully reveals the answer as to Who is in control. The book leaves no doubt that there is an ultimate controlling power, that the power is God, and that God uses all things to accomplish His plans.

When Daniel praised God for revealing King Nebuchadnezzar's dream to him, he stated, "Let the name of God be blessed forever and ever, for wisdom and power belong to Him. It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings" (2:20-21). Daniel knew that God was in charge of bestowing wisdom and power, of causing transitions in world systems and eras, and of changing governments. That's a lot of control.

When Daniel prepared to relay God's answer to Nebuchadnezzar about what his dream meant, he told the king this truth: "You, O king, are the king of kings, to whom the God of heaven has given the kingdom, the power, the strength and the glory ... He has given them into your hand and has caused you to rule over them all" (2:37-38). Daniel made clear that this powerful king was established and victorious only because of God's intervention. That's a lot of control.

As Daniel described the final world kingdom, he again stated that God would both establish, maintain, and preserve that kingdom. "The God of heaven will set up a kingdom which will never be destroyed" (2:44). God will make that kingdom last forever, and He will conquer every power on earth to do so. That's a lot of control.

In a subsequent dream, Nebuchadnezzar heard a voice declaring, "The Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind, and bestows it on whom He wishes" (4:17). When Daniel explained the dream, he confirmed the message, stating, "The Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind and bestows it on whomever He wishes" (4:25). "It is Heaven that rules" (4:26). Every king and ruler rules at the pleasure of God. That's a lot of control.

A year later, Nebuchadnezzar proudly touted his own efforts in establishing himself and his great kingdom. God responded, "Sovereignty has been removed from you" (4:31). "The Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind and bestows it on whomever He wishes" (4:32). God wanted to make it very clear to Nebuchadnezzar what the source of his power was and where his success came from. The most powerful king on earth actually had no power at all. God reduced him to the state of a beast, living in the wild, and eating grass for seven years. That's a lot of control.

Nebuchadnezzar learned his lesson. He humbled himself before God and recognized, "He does according to His will in the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and no one can ward off His hand or say to Him, 'What have You done?'" (4:35). Not a single person on earth, nor the whole earth together, can stop God's hand. That's a lot of control.

When Nebuchadnezzar's son Belshazzar arrogantly used the temple treasures for his drunken feast, God intervened with the frightening experience of writing on the wall. Daniel was called, and he recounted the stories and lessons of Nebuchadnezzar. He reminded, "The Most High God granted sovereignty, grandeur, glory and majesty to Nebuchadnezzar your father" (5:18). "Because of the grandeur which He bestowed on him" (5:19). "But when his heart was lifted up and his spirit became so proud that he behaved arrogantly, he was deposed from his royal throne" (5:20). Daniel instructed Belshazzar that God had both established Nebuchadnezzar to great power and had also humbled him to the lowest level. That's a lot of control.

Daniel declared a similar message to Belshazzar as he had given to his father. Daniel told him, "The Most High God is ruler over the realm of mankind" (5:21). Earthly kings may reign at His pleasure, but they are not really in control. They have no control. When God determines that their time is up, He stops them and removes them. "God has numbered your kingdom and put an end to it. ... Your kingdom has been divided and given over to the Medes and Persians" (5:26&28). God can bring powerful empires to an end. That's a lot of control.

The world still thinks it is in control. Powerful leaders exert themselves. They control their people. They abuse their citizens. They kill their enemies. They build up power and armies, and they think that they cannot be stopped. God gave Daniel a dream that revealed the final kingdom that will come. As Daniel saw the future play out, He observed the reigning Messiah. "To Him was given dominion, glory and a kingdom" (7:14). The world powers waged war, thinking they could overpower the King and His subjects "Until the Ancient of Days came and judgment was passed" (7:22). The Anti-Christ "will even oppose the Prince of princes, but he will be broken without human agency" (8:25). God will supernaturally destroy this powerful leader and his vast army. God will achieve what no human leader has ever accomplished. He will vanquish every enemy, and He will bring world peace. That's a lot of control.

When things seem to be out of control, the Mighty God, the Most High, is in fact in control. He can stop every power. He can harness and restrain every force. No person or nation or power can go any further than God allows it to go. Under God's mighty hand, the world is never out of control. Instead, it is securely under the control of the One who uses all things to accomplish His purposes.

Hopeful Prayer

Jeremiah had a long ministry. He started in the thirteenth year of Josiah's reign, then served under Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, and Zedekiah. He accompanied the people into captivity and was there with them for many years. The final event recorded in Jeremiah's book is the release of Jehoiachin from prison, something that happened 68 years after Jeremiah first started prophesying.

Jeremiah also had a sad ministry. He saw a few years of great revival, but he saw many years of great wickedness. He saw the first, second, and third exiles, as well as an ill-advised and disastrous trip to Egypt, and the siege and fall of Jerusalem. Jeremiah faced overwhelming rejection of his message. He was rejected by his neighbors, by his own family, by the priests and prophets, by his friends, by all the people, and by the king.

Over his long ministry, Jeremiah had plenty of opportunities to see the faithfulness of God. He lived long enough to see many results of what he prophesied. He saw God give instructions to him and then observed the completed out-workings of those instructions just as God had said.

Observing God's faithfulness and completion of His word gave Jeremiah courage to pray. One of his prayers comes in the final verses of Lamentations. The setting of Lamentations was not pleasant. Jeremiah mourned over the fall of Jerusalem and destruction of the temple. He mourned over the loss, the devastation, and the resulting affliction of God's people.

He did not want that sad condition to be the end, however, and he prayed accordingly in Lamentations 5:21-22. "Restore us to You, O LORD, that we may be restored; renew our days as of old, unless You have utterly rejected us and are exceedingly angry with us." Jeremiah did not believe that God's judgment was final and irreversible. He believed God would someday restore His people.

Sadly, there are times that God's people walk away from Him. There are unexpected and shocking rejections. There are even obstinate refusals to come back to God. Only God knows when someone has gone so far that he will not come back. In such cases, God sometimes has to remove that person from this world for the sake of His name and work.

Thankfully, however, God allows for people to return to Him. He welcomes those who have wandered and receives those who have rejected. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (I John 1:9). Like the father of the prodigal son, God waits and watches, ready to receive those who will humbly return.

Was it too late for Israel? Was Jeremiah's prayer in vain? No. Jeremiah did not live long enough to see the answer, but God did answer his prayer. More than once, God has shown that His rejection of Israel was not final. Throughout history, He has brought His people back to their land. He has always protected a remnant and has offered them renewed hope.

Has the final answer to Jeremiah's prayer happened? I don't believe so. There is a day coming when God will restore Israel to a position of immense blessing and global admiration. There is a day coming when all the Jews remaining alive will turn to God and fully follow Him. The answer to Jeremiah's prayer will be incredible.

This prayer of Jeremiah, unfulfilled in his lifetime, offers two aspects of hope. First, God extends the opportunity for those who have wandered to return to Him and be restored. Second, God answers prayer; some answers will take so long that those who pray will not see the answers, but they can still pray in faith to the God who is able to do His work.

What's Wrong with God?

What's wrong with God? There must be something wrong with Him, since people reject Him. The strongest example would be people who once followed Him but who have since turned away. They must have found some fault in God that made Him no longer worthy of following.

This consideration is precisely the issue that God addressed with Israel. They followed Him for a time but then fell away. God confronted them with this question: "What injustice did your fathers find in Me, that they went far from Me and walked after emptiness and became empty?" (Jeremiah 2:5).

God demanded an answer. What had the people found wrong with Him? There could be no answer to that question, because there is nothing wrong with God. He has no injustice, no fault, no flaw, no failure. Such shortcomings are not possible for God.

Actually, those who alleged an injustice in God were ignoring fact. They did not consider the right data. "They did not say, 'Where is the LORD who brought us up out of the land of Egypt, who led us through the wilderness, through a land of deserts and of pits, through a land of drought and of deep darkness, through a land that no one crossed and where no man dwelt?' I brought you into the fruitful land to eat its fruit and its good things" (vs. 6-7).

Far from showing injustice toward Israel, God had done for them infinitely more than they deserved. After rescuing them from brutal bondage, God led them through a wilderness, providing for every need of a vast nation of people. He brought them exactly where He wanted them to be, to a promised land flowing with milk and honey. He intervened to give them that land by driving out the nations that were already established.

Does that sound like injustice? Does it sound like fault in God? Quite the contrary. In fact, God had repeatedly overlooked and forgiven their sins, shortcomings, griping, and rebellion. He had done all these good things in spite of their qualifications or behavior.

God wasn't unjust. He didn't ruin things. Perhaps the reason why the people later turned against God was that they thought things were ruined. The years of blessing and of plentiful harvest stopped. Their military power faded, and they were repeatedly plundered by foreign nations. Their treasures were stolen, and harsh tribute was required. Many of their people were killed in battle, and some were carried into exile.

None of that, however, was God's fault. The people were the ones who had ruined everything. "But you came and defiled My land, and My inheritance you made an abomination" (v. 7). What God gave them was good, even amazing. Their rebellion, disobedience, and mistreatment changed that. They brought down on themselves the inevitable results of their own behavior.

To be clear, the end result was ruin. The people "defiled" the land (v. 7). They made it "an abomination" (v. 7). They themselves "became empty" (v. 5). Walking in God's paths does not bring these disastrous results, but His Word makes it clear that following one's own way does bring disaster.

How many people today grow cold toward God because (whether they overtly state it or not) they blame Him for the disastrous status of their lives? They argue that God has let them down. Like Israel, they have forgotten all that He has done for them. They have forgotten His displays of mercy when they have fallen short. They have failed to realize that they are the ones to blame for the way their lives have ended up.

Nobody's life is perfect. Troubles do come, sometimes just because this world is fallen, sometimes because God is working out larger plans, including the maturing of His children. Everyone's life is a work in progress. Sometimes disaster and ruin seem like the result, when those are only temporary stages that will turn around for good.

So when a believer's life seems in ruin, there are two possibilities to consider. First, he does not yet see the end of the story. The difficulty may be temporary and not what God intends forever. Second, the disaster may have been self-inflicted, brought on by ignoring God's way and by forgetting His blessings. Either way, the answer is never that God is unjust or that He has failed. God's character does not allow that, and history has repeatedly verified His infallibility.

In times of trouble, do not turn from God in disappointment or disillusionment, my friend. Instead, run to Him and cling to the faithful God. There is nothing wrong with Him.

Approachable God

Idols have no power. They can't communicate, and they can't help those who carry them around. Those who worship them wander about with "no knowledge," and "pray to a god who cannot save" (Isaiah 45:20).

God is far different. He has all power. He "created the heavens"; He "formed the earth" (45:18). God's intent was to fill that earth with people. He "did not create it a waste place, but formed it to be inhabited" (45:18). He wants those people to know Him.

Some have accused God of being hidden or unknowable. "Truly, You are a God who hides Himself" (45:15). This is not the case. God reveals Himself in many ways, desiring "that men may know from the rising to the setting of the sun that there is no one besides Me. I am the Lord, and there is no other" (45:6).

God is open and vocal in His pursuit of men. He says, "I have not spoken in secret, in some dark land; I did not say to the offspring of Jacob, 'Seek Me in a waste place'" (45:19). He invites people to "Gather yourselves and come; draw near together, you fugitives of the nations" (45:20).

His invitation is open and free. "Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other" (45:22). God is not hidden or hard to find. His call is not subdued, and His presence is not remote. What a wonder that the mighty Creator-God wants people to know Him! What a blessing that He reveals Himself to them and welcomes them with open and loving arms!

Wrong Payment

God did much for the people of Israel. They did not exist until God formed them as a nation. He brought them through the years of the patriarchs when their continuation as a nation hung by a thread. He prospered and multiplied them through the provision of Egypt. He miraculously delivered them from slavery. He led them and provided for them through the wilderness. He expelled heathen nations before them. He made a mighty and prosperous nation out of a periodically barren and desert land. He repeatedly delivered them in battle against tremendous odds. He sent them rain and other blessings. He claimed them as His special people.

How did Israel respond to this attention and devotion of God? The response varied among individuals and changed corporately over time. Some loved and served God, but Israel reached the point of rejecting God as a nation. Isaiah 43:22-24 recounts this sad result:

"Yet you have not called on Me, O Jacob; but you have become weary of Me, O Israel. You have not brought to Me the sheep of your burnt offerings, nor have you honored Me with your sacrifices. ... You have bought Me not sweet cane with money, nor have you filled Me with the fat of your sacrifices; rather you have burdened Me with your sins, you have wearied Me with your iniquities."

Israel stopped talking to God, stopped depending on Him. They became tired of Him and cast Him off as an empty ritual. They stopped bringing Him offerings and gifts. Instead of these good things, or even mere neutrality, Israel began giving God negative responses. All they gave Him were sins and iniquities to the point that He tired of such responses.

Christians have likewise been greatly blessed by God. He designed and carried out a plan of redemption long before they existed. He sent a Savior, who at great cost provided for their salvation. He inspired the Bible to instruct them about Himself and His salvation. He preserved that Word through millennia and allowed it to be translated into common languages. He ordained messengers to proclaim His truth. His Spirit brought conviction. He took those who believed and made them His beloved children when they were previously His enemies. He brought them from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light. He showered them with blessings: provisions, answered prayer, guidance, wisdom, fellow believers, faithful pastors, good churches, mentors, resources, and much more.

Do Christians today respond better than Israel did? Again, the response differs among individuals and can vary over time. Many Christians have followed faithfully and have given God their devoted service. Others have walked completely away, turning their backs on the One they once claimed to love. Many others fall somewhere in the middle; they claim to love and follow God, but their actions are much like those of Israel.

Sadly, some Christians have stopped talking to God. They have stopped depending on God. Personal pursuit of God, church attendance, and service for God have become old; Christianity has become an empty ritual. These Christians stop bringing God gifts - no more devoted service, only grudging tithes but nothing beyond, or perhaps only occasional giving toward a special project. They stop fellowshipping with other believers, stop sharing in one another's lives. Indeed, beyond an absence of proper and good gifts, and beyond mere neutrality, their only "gifts" to God are rebellion, resistance, and opposition. They owe God everything, but give Him only sorrow and grief through obstinate pursuit of worldliness and reckless acceptance of sin.

Why was it so easy for Israel to fall into this condition? Why is it so common for Christians to follow this routine? The answer is found in the heart. "This people draw near with their words and honor Me with their lip service, but they remove their hearts far from Me, and their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote" (Isaiah 29:13). When following of God is mere mimicry or conformity, it will fail. Christianity cannot be a cultural or family tradition; it must be a personal and individual commitment. Those who are merely following family practices or traditional expectations will not endure.

The answer is also found in remembering. Psalm 78 addresses this problem in Israel's history. Asaph recounts how God had done so much for Israel, but how they rebelled against Him. Asaph challenges new generations to "not forget the works of God" (v. 7). He tells that the previous generations who rebelled "forgot His deeds" (v. 11). "They did not remember His power" (v. 42). Only when they temporarily "remembered that God was their Rock" (v. 35) did they follow Him for a short time. In general, however, they forgot what He had done and they therefore turned away from Him.

It is important for Christians to remember their salvation. The Lord's Supper (Communion) is designed to help in this necessary reminder. Additionally, Christians must deliberately take note of God's good gifts - His daily provision, His answers to prayer, His blessings. They need to regularly recognize and thank God for His goodness.

Those who truly know God in their hearts and who regularly remember what He has done for them will not fall into the trap of giving God the wrong payment - rebellion, sin, and worldliness - in place of the payment He deserves - worship, service, and obedience.

Christians who properly recognize God's good and gracious work will never get tired of God; rather, they will say with the psalmist, "What shall I render to the LORD for all His benefits toward me?" (Psalm 116:12). The answer will certainly not be burdening sins or wearying iniquities; instead, their lives will be characterized by offerings, sacrifices, and sweet cane.