Security threats! Since 911, this concept has become all too familiar in our
world. We now seem to face them in unprecedent proportions. Climate
change, cyber security, nuclear security, identity theft, are just a few that
consume the human conscious daily. However, no security threat has become
more real on a global scale than COVID-19 that has attacked our world
during the past couple of months. The impact has become catastrophic. And,
while a cloud of heightened anxiety, fear, confusion, and uncertainty blanket
our world, many are taking stock of their own personal security. Will I have
enough food? Will my business survive? Will the stock market crash? Will
there be adequate health services to meet the growing number of COVID-19
cases? Who will be the next to contract the virus? etc. All real threats to our
personal security!!! So, where do one go to find comfort amidst these fears?
Psalm 46: 1-2a is one of many Scripture verses that provides a ray of hope
for our world. It says “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help
in times of trouble. Therefore, we will not fear.” David knew the reality of
fear as he too was being attacked by forces greater than himself. A trained
warrior, he led armies to fight off threats from neighboring nations. As King,
he faced personal threats from a jealous Saul, as he spent years running for
his security – eventually hiding in cave. Even though David was King of
Israel and “a man after God’s own heart,” through these threats, David
learned that spiritual security does not come from socioeconomic status,
cultural background, or political position. It comes from relying on a God
who promises to be a refuge and strength and an ever-present help in times
of trouble.
David was human like you and I. He knew 1 st hand what it was like to
experience personal security threats – whether physical, social, political, or
spiritual. He wasn’t surprised by them, however. The sovereign God became
David’s refugee and strength, his hope and his security, even when life’s
circumstances did not make sense and fear blanketed his mind and spirit.
As we continue to face this global security threat to our physical, financial,
social, and emotional well-being, we would be wise to take stock of our
personal spiritual resources in these days as we remind ourselves that our
faith in Jesus Christ – who let go of his earthly security to die on a Roman
cross for our sins – is our personal Savior. Jesus Christ, who rose from the
grave to give us new life, is our eternal hope. Jesus Christ, who ascended into
heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father, sent the Holy Spirit to be
our comforter. So, do not fear, Scripture reminds us. “Though the earth give
way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea…. The Lord Almighty,
the sovereign One is with us.” (Psalm 46:2b, 7)
My prayer is that when security threats such as COVID-19 seeks to ‘steal
your faith,’ may the words of this song give you hope and security for your
soul.
Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
when the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift and the cables strain,
will your anchor drift or firm remain?
(Refrain)
We have an anchor that keeps the soul
steadfast and sure while the billows roll,
fastened to the rock which cannot move,
grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love!
2. Will your anchor hold in the straits of fear,
when the breakers roar and the reef is near?
While the surges rave and the wild winds blow,
shall the angry waves then your bark o’er flow?
(Refrain)
3. Will your eyes behold through the morning light
the city of gold and the harbour bright?
Will you anchor safe by the heavenly shore,
when life’s storms are past forever more?
(Refrain)
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him,him, so
that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans
15:13)
Major Jim Mercer
(Corps Officer/Pastor)