Standing Strong in Pandemic Times
I will never forget the tiny 80+ year old Dutch woman about to speak on the stage at Gordon Conwell Seminary in South Hamilton, Massachusetts so many years ago. The room was silent. Everyone waited with rapt attention as the woman was introduced…the tension palpable. This woman was one of those extraordinary people you meet in life who you know represents the God of the Universe and whose words are like treasure never to be forgotten. Her name was Corrie ten Boom.
In 1940 when the Nazis occupied Haarlem, Holland during World War II she and her family gave sanctuary to Amsterdam Jews. As a result, they were captured and experienced the horror of the Nazi concentration camps. She was her family’s sole survivor.
At age 80+, God called Corrie to travel the world to warn God’s people of turbulent times ahead and the absolute faithfulness of God who loved and cared for them as His children. She came to America to carry her message of hope and faith. God allowed me the privilege of sitting in that auditorium, and I believe her message is one for all of us today as we face current affairs.
Her words were based on Paul’s words in Ephesians 6,
“Finally, BE STRONG in the Lord and in HIS mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so thatyou can TAKE YOUR STAND against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the Heavenly realms.
Therefore put on the full armor of God so that when the day of evil comes, you may BE ABLE TO STAND YOUR GROUND, and after you have done everything, TO STAND.
STAND FIRM then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist. With the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep praying for all the Lord’s people.
I remember as the voice of this tiny Dutch woman rang across the audience, “STAND, STAND, AND STAND AGAIN.” Her message was unmistakable. God is a loving Father who we can trust during the absolute worst of times. We can run to Him in times of trouble when the enemy of our souls comes to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10) and He will receive us, His arms open wide. We can trust Him.
How do you stand strong in pandemic times so that you can continue to live Your Refreshed Life regardless of the circumstances? Spend time with your Heavenly Father. Talk with Him, read His Word and ask for His insight and direction. Get to know Him more deeply than ever before. And then with simple childlike faith, run into His arms for refuge and the strength only He can give. He IS faithful. You CAN trust Him. And He WILL give you the Holy Spirit’s power within to STAND, STAND, and STAND again.
Suggested Reading:
Tramp for the Lord: The Unforgettable True Story of Faith and Survival
Whether you buy this book or listen to it on Audible, I can promise you this is a book you will never forget! Are you looking for hope, faith, and strength during these turbulent times? Join Corrie and experience the miracles of God’s provision and supernatural care that is ours as well in Jesus Christ right now…right here.
