It seems that there are only two alternatives in the natural flow of events: first, imposed order or, second, our society once again affirming that base which gave freedom without chaos in the first place—God’s revelation in the Bible and his revelation through Christ.
Excerpt from How Should We Then Live? by Francis Schaeffer
This morning I was challenged to defend my statement of agreement with the stay at home - safe distancing order in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and, my expressed belief that to do otherwise endangers lives. My Facebook comment cited how I had observed three funerals between last Friday and Sunday - within a stone's throw of my home - comprised of large, closely grouped attendees and each gathering lasting for hours.
The following question addressing what I shared demanded a reply.
“How do you know that God won’t protect His children for being faithful to Him? How do you KNOW?????”
I imagine others, like the gentleman who so passionately questioned me, might be wrestling with the imposed restrictions and loss of liberties as well. So, I decided to share my response not only with him but also with you.
"Let me address your question as stated:
“How do you know that God won’t protect His children for being faithful to Him? How do you KNOW?????”
The Word of God is my source of instruction for how I should live in all circumstances. Romans 13: 1-4 guides our actions with these words."Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good."
Romans 12:10 gives further instruction: "Live in true devotion to one another, loving each other as sisters and brothers. Be first to honor others by putting them first."
We cannot "know" what will happen if we oppose the findings of the world's top medical authorities. But, soul searching will allow all to see the folly of taking chances with the lives of those we are called to prefer in love and honor.
Is it really being "faithful to God" if we disregard the guidelines given by our civil authorities: actions that we KNOW save lives?
I prefer to err on side of caution than take a chance that I might be party to the harm of another. Galatians 5:13 explains this course of action. "For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only [use] not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another."
Gathering corporately to worship might give momentary comfort in an unprecedented time such as this,; but that does not give us the right to ignore wisdom and act without prudence.
It is my belief that this time of grievous self denial is actually a "divine pause" for reevaluating and reconnecting to everything that is important and essential as individuals and citizens. This suspension of life as usual can be either frustrating if we dwell on the limitations and unknowns at hand or it can be our greatest time of spiritual growth and renewal as we draw close to God and embrace His promise: "nothing can separate us from the love of God": Romans 8:39
I believe Isaiah 26:20 confirms our stay at home order. In the words of Scripture I find peace to stay this storm.
"Come my people, enter your chambers, and shut the doors behind you; hide yourselves for a time until the fury has passed by."
Although this trial is long and hard, take heart:
"..I am with you always [remaining with you perpetually—regardless of circumstance, and on every occasion], even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 (Amplified Bible)
Written by Charlie Fusco