The recent Covid-19 Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) is a grave reminder for us to stay vigilant and adaptable, as circumstances can change at any moment.
The fight against Covid-19 mirrors our ongoing battle in our Christian walk, where the destructive effects of the enemy extend beyond our physical bodies and to eternity. Drawing parallels to and lessons from the familiar Covid-19 safety measures, let us stay spiritually alert and protect ourselves against this insidious and menacing enemy by adopting the following practices:
Safe distancing – from the devil, by being spiritually connected to God. The freedom of Phase 3 was short-lived, and within weeks, we experienced a sense of déjà vu, reverting to working from home (WFH) for the adults and home-based learning (HBL) for students. As we adapt to the constant change and uncertainty, let us maintain a safe distance from the enemy by staying spiritually connected to God. God is our anchor of hope and security in unpredictable times (Hebrews 6:19), and the nearer we draw to Him, the further from the enemy we will be. Be intentional about spending time with God – in prayer, reading His Word and in fellowship with fellow believers.
Wash your hands – having clean hands and pure hearts. Personal hygiene is key in the fight against Covid-19. Likewise, we must maintain good personal hygiene in our spiritual lives. David writes in Psalm 24:3-4, “Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift his soul to an idol or swear by what is false.” Ask God to reveal to us the areas in our lives that need cleansing, be it our words, thoughts or deeds. Staying at home and juggling WFH and HBL on top of life’s challenges can often heighten stress levels and result in family conflicts. Remember to resolve these conflicts with God’s help and keep our hearts pure. Let us be careful not to allow resentment to take root within our hearts and our families.
Wear your physical masks – but don’t hide your authentic selves. The wearing of masks makes it harder for us to recognise people at first glance; I have had embarrassing moments of walking right past people I know. While we put on physical masks to protect us from harmful viruses, in life, we may also put on unseen masks to hide our insecurities and present a false image to those around us, or even to God. God desires for us not to live with pretense, but with authenticity before Him. Instead of trying to impress God (and others), we can come before Him in humility, acknowledge our weaknesses and brokenness, and invite Him to heal, mould, and transform us to become more like Him (Psalm 34:18). Let our unveiled faces reflect God’s glory as we live authentically (2 Corinthians 3:18).
Be vaccinated – against the enemy’s schemes. While we have been inoculated against the death sentence of sin because of what Christ has done for us on the cross, being thus “vaccinated” does not mean we will not be “infected” by the enemy’s entrapments. We may still fall prey to, and will need to mount a fight against, the alluring schemes of sin today. Let us be battle-ready by putting on the protective armour of God (Ephesians 6:10-20).
Let us stay spiritually alert and anchored in Christ during this season. “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14).
Stay safe and strong.
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