Where is God in the Coronavirus crisis?

Greetings in the name of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.

By now everyone is fully aware of the situation facing our nation (and the world) as we respond to the serious threat of the Coronavirus. It has impacted our nation in ways we could never have foreseen. This is troubling to many people who are at risk of contacting the virus and to those who are suffering loss because of the measures taken to reduce those risks. This purpose of this message is to offer hope at this time of crisis.

At times like these, believers can find great hope in the God of the Bible. Our God is great and in sovereign control of the whole earth. We can take comfort that God is always in control. While we may not understand why God has allowed this to happen, we can be assured that God has a plan. And we know it is a good plan, because, as Scripture reminds us “He does all things well” (Mark 7:37). While you endure these trying times, do not lose focus on the fact that God is at work, and He is working His plan for our good.

Anna and I are using this time to pray for you, our loyal support team, your churches, and our faithful students overseas. We love you and pray that God is being glorified in your lives and ministries. We must never lose faith that God is doing something good. Remember the testimony of Joseph who endured much trouble, yet he explained to his conniving brothers that God is sovereign in all of it.

Genesis 50:19-20 Joseph said to them, “Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.”

God is always good and always working His plan for our good. Nothing can stop God from providentially doing His will. Our confidence comes from the fact that we KNOW this!

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

Even in times of trouble we must affirm this biblical truth. And we must live like we believe it! If you truly believe this, then even in times of trouble you can sing hymns, praise God, and rejoice in Him. God is so merciful to inform us of this truth. Apart from this divine revelation, we would be hopeless in times of trouble. We would be doomed to a pagan view of life: “que sera sera.” We would be totally unable to handle trouble. Only a gracious God would inform His children how He works.

We look forward to the day when the crisis is past, and we can once again perform this ministry God has given us to do. The mission of On Target Ministry will continue, and your partnership in training national pastors overseas will continue to bring truth to many. So, take heart and do not be weary in well-doing. Use these days wisely to point people to the Savior and praise His name. Draw closer to God through His Word. And in everything give thanks, for this is also the will of God (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

We are praying for you and your families, and we are confident you are praying for us. To God alone be all the glory.

Grace and peace,
Doc and Anna