Carol Purves

We can be joyful in difficult situations and, oh boy, have we got one now. Even so we can be joyful, we have a Saviour. He is suffering with us. So many of you were suffering before but our God is faithful, He will not let us down.

‘With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.’ Isaiah 12:3

‘The Lord will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.’ Isaiah 26:3

There is a great deal to worry about at the moment right round the world. This text tells us that we can have perfect peace, but there is a proviso; We need to trust in God. God’s peace is not just handed out on a plate.

‘Never doubt in the dark what God has told you in the light.’

There is no doubt that our countries and all your countries are in the dark. But some of us have had years and years of hearing God’s promises. We can now prove them to be true. Even if you have only known God for a short time, this is your chance to see that He is All Powerful. In spite of everything He is in full control.

We need to tell everyone about our God. Not easy at the moment as we are isolating from other people because of the virus. But there are others ways. What social media, which is so important to keep in touch. We also need to remember that it is God who is in control. Tell others that.

‘Declare His glory among the nations, His marvellous deeds among all peoples.’ Psalm 96:3

In the present situation that the world is in at the moment, we all need to work together. This means nations, neighbours and families all looking out for each other.

‘He has committed to us the message of reconciliation.. 2 Corinthians 5:19

Even in our own countries there are people who have never heard of God’s love. We pray that we may be led to them today and be able to share the Good News with them.

‘It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation.’ Romans 15:20

Massively good and bad things are happening right round the world. But we must never forget who is in control. Who created the world and everything in it and yet cares for us as individuals.

‘When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that You are mindful of them.’ Psalm 8:3-4

God did all this by just using His fingers, not even His whole hands. How marvellous.

We need to be wiling, then we don’t know where He will send us. It could be the last place on earth we want to be, but then equally it might be by green pastures. It is the willingness that matters.

‘Who shall I send? and who will go for us? And I said ‘Here am I, send me.’ Isaiah 6:8

We are the hands and fee of God. The Father lives in us to do His work. At this serious time we have an opportunity to show the world who is in control and He wants everyone to turn to Him.

‘We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors as though God was making His appeal through us.’ 2 Corinthians 5:20

At the present time the whole world is in serious trouble. Death and illness face many. Now is the time to remember where our help and strength come from. Our God is far, far stronger than any virus.

‘Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.’ Isaiah 40:3