In Him All Things Hold Together

“For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”

 – Colossians 1:16-17

Hi Church! As you may already know, the world is in a panic and if you haven’t personally been affected by COVID -19, you probably know someone who has. Currently, we’ve been told by our government to stay home and only pursue essential travel. Stores have closed, events have been cancelled, airlines shut down, and social distancing has been enforced.

The fear produced from a pandemic like this can be quite gripping and even though it may seem like everything is out of control, what a joy it is to know that we can still trust in God’s sovereignty. All things will work to His glory and He can use even these circumstances to further His Kingdom and reach His people.

As Christians we may be tempted to join the world in chaos, however we must remember who our Father is and our place in the midst of crises. Let’s be encouraged that during this time we can be vessels of the peace that guards our hearts and minds. We can display the peace that surpasses all understanding as we continue to lift the world up by prayer and petition (Phil 4:6-7). Titus 3:14 reads “…let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.” As we respond to this call and attempt to meet the needs of our society, let us also make it known how we love one another and cling to the steady hope of Jesus.

Thankfully, God has graciously prepared His children for times exactly like this and not left us empty-handed or to reach out blindly in the darkness. He has given us the tools to be able to work through every trial this season brings, equipping us with every good thing for doing His will (Hebrews 13:21). There may be many doubts and accusations thrown at the Christian perspective amidst all the sickness and death. However, His word teaches that we shouldn’t act as though something strange is happening (1 Peter 4:12) but we can rejoice in the sufferings of Christ, all the while taking the opportunity to show the world who is holding everything together. Jesus is the fortress we can run to so let us bring others with us while we continue to persevere together. Look for the blessings. We now have the time to slow down. Psalm 37:7 reads “Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act.” Church, let us remain calm, use this time to be still in His presence. Quiet down long enough to hear that still voice speaking, the one we may have been too busy to hear lately. Let us trust that “for those who love God, all things work together for good…” (Romans 8:28). Remember that all things are held together by the LORD most high. He commanded Moses to be strong and courageous, to let Him fight the battle, to trust, and wait on Him (Exodus 14:14). So I pray we do the same.

David writes “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy” (Psalms 94:19). Friends, joy can be found in the darkest of places when we lean on Jesus. Though He may not always bring the resolution we expect, God has promised us His peace and to finish the good work He has started in us. Let Him into the places of fear and you will see Him do a work in you. This is a very difficult time of mourning and questioning for many. It will be hard to see hope through so much tragedy. However,  I pray we continue to carry each other’s burdens, cry with one another, and spur one another on in love all the more.

If you find yourself unsure of how to spend this time, take the opportunity to reach out to others you may have lost touch with and hold your family members close. Remember your extroverted friends! They need you right now. As well as the ones who you know struggle with mental illness. Catch up on some online sermons, pray, and trust that God will make a way as He always does (Isaiah 43:16-19). Find out how you can be a help to your community because this world needs Jesus. Finally, be encouraged friends. CO-VID 19 did not surprise Jesus, nor does it have the power to shake Him off His throne. He is still moving, He loves us and will never forsake us.