Pastor's Ponderings, May 31, 2016

In Spite Of Bad Germs, Our Safety Is In Jesus

In a recent article in the Huffington Post, the writers warned that a mutant strain of E. coli, resistant to even the toughest antibiotics, has been discovered and their fear was that a gene called “mcr-1” could spread to other bacteria and make them indestructible to any known antibiotics.   As if that were not enough, “Contained,” a limited series TV show about a city trying to contain a virus outbreak, debuted in May 2016.  It seems that we cannot get away from reports of that terror even in our entertainment.

But Jesus, in the Bible, tells us not to let reports of scary things trouble us (John 14:27).  He tells us further, that we are not to be afraid of the night terrors, daily weapons, various diseases, or sundry disasters (Psalm 91:5-7).  This does not mean that we can foolishly go into danger, disease, or destruction, but we have His blessed assurance that He will be with us.

In spite of challenges around us, they will not reach their goal because of His presence (Isaiah 43:2). He goes on to say that He would rescue us, protect, cover and shelter us (Psalm 91:3, 4).  We thank God for our awesome health system, but we can look to Him for our protection (2 Chronicles 20:12)

We know that the media has a responsibility to report all of the facts that may impact us, but we can focus on the higher truth.  In spite of the superbugs, the biological terrorists, or accidental disasters, we can simply be confident in our Saviour that holds us, keeps us, and safeguards us.  

John 14:27
New Living Translation (NLT)

27 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

Psalm 91:3-7
New Living Translation (NLT)

3 For he will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease.

4 He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.

5 Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day.

6 Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday.

7 Though a thousand fall at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you, these evils will not touch you.

Isaiah 43:2
New Living Translation (NLT)

2 When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.

When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown.

When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.

2 Chronicles 20:12

New Living Translation (NLT)

12 O our God, won't you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help."