Shalom Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
We are all aware of the measures imposed by the government, namely the Movement of Control Order (MCO).
As responsible citizens, let us cooperate with the authorities and do not get into any unnecessary arguments should you be questioned by the police or the relevant authorities in a roadblock or anything of that sort.
Please stay at home unless you need to buy food or essentials/necessities – and we have been advised not to bring the whole family out but to limit the number of people going out to one person (rules and regulations continue to be updated daily – please follow the latest guidelines issued by the authorities – to take note that each state may have additional rules).
We must all share the common understanding on what our government and the health authorities are attempting to do, namely “flatten the curve” – to curb the spread of the Covid 19 virus.
As Christians, we should keep calm and not allow the spirit of fear and panic in our minds and hearts in this hour. We read in 2 Timothy 1:7 – For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. There are many video resources in our YouTube channel to edify and strengthen our walk with God. Spend time at home waiting on God in His Presence – in prayer and in meditation of His Word. When we know Who our God is and that He is with us, all fear must go. We are reminded that God has instead given us power and love. This is not the time to criticize or shame anybody but let us emphatize with those who are sick and suffering – and be channels of God’s love and to pray for His Kingdom to come and His Will to be done. The power released by God comes through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8). It is therefore important to be led by the Holy Spirit – we are not to be presumptuous but to live a God-dependent life – wholly dependent on God. Power comes through listening and obeying God!
God has also given us a sound mind. Please take extra caution when reading forwarded messages and so-called “latest news”. We should ask God to help us to discern when a message you receive (on WhatsApp or other social media) is genuine or not. Reflect and ponder on the content of the message before forwarding any unverified news or message (better not to forward if you are unsure). Importantly, do not spread any fake news or unverified news that create unnecessary panic or fear.
Whilst we are a community of believers who believe in God’s protection, divine health and divine healing, we do not advocate reckless living. Just as Timothy was advised in 1 Timothy 5:23 to use a little wine for his ailment – we should all be practicing good hygiene – use of hand sanitiser, washing of hands and use of face masks must be adopted as advised by the health authorities and experts. Understandably, there is now a low supply of sanitiser and face mask – this should not be a cause for us to be anxious and fearful but in times when we have no access to such natural resources, we put our entire trust in God Who is more than able to keep us and protect us unharmed. To qualify this earlier statement, even when we are utilising natural resources, our trust is wholly on God and God alone.
Continue to be in touch with your loved ones and with one another. Join the online Sunday Worship Service and Mid-week gathering and may God deepen our walk with Him during such times and may we arise and let His light shine through us all.