Nick Cady and Aaron Salvato talk with missionaries Jed Gourley and Pam Markey about the situation in Ukraine! We at CGN wanted to do what we can to help our Calvary family understand what is happening in Ukraine during the start of this war and how we can all be praying.

Every day for the past year (since March of 2020) I have thought about what is meant when we say a “healthy church” while leading a prayer hour with Calvary Global Network’s “Prayer Around the World” initiative. I’ve become more convinced than ever that the Church throughout the world is in no way what most would call “smooth operating.” But, oh, how blessed I have been to also experience first-hand that the worldwide body of Christ is definitely alive, active and growing despite illnesses, attacks and failures.

The CGN “Prayer Around the World” initiative is men and women – pastors, missionaries and other church leaders – leading an hour of prayer on Facebook Live, Monday – Friday, praying for people who log on with their prayer needs from anywhere in the world. You can click here to join a prayer hour live or to watch the archives.

Some of the things that have I learned about prayer through CGN’s Prayer Around the World are:

ONLINE PRAYER IS WEIRD

It is. But I regularly remind people logging on my prayer hour that although this type of prayer is unusual, public prayer is just one of the many different ways prayer is shown in the Bible. We are encouraged to pray privately (Matthew 6:6), to pray with one another (Matthew 18:19-20), and there are also positive examples of public prayer. The prophet Ezra, King Solomon and even Jesus cried out to God in public. Once, even God’s response to Jesus’s prayer was said to be not for him, but for the benefit of those listening (John 12:28,30).

Prayer, in any form, in its essence should be honest (Psalm 145:18), passionate (James 5:16) and intimate (Psalm 66:18). But how can that be achieved for an hour at a time, while you’re not truly “alone,” but where the only interaction with others is is not in person, not even voices or video faces online but only through text? For me, only by humbling leaning into all that I do not know, endeavoring to “be not wise in my own eyes” (Proverbs 3:5-6) and becoming a student of prayer has God been able to work.

PRAYER IS A MYSTERY

While I have learned some things about prayer after half a century of praying, hearing countless teachings on prayer and teaching some of those myself, I still don’t understand how prayer works. In these online prayer hours, it’s what I don’t know about prayer that has become most vital for me to remember. Again and again, I am reminded of Jesus’ call for all those who are weary and burdened to come and “learn of Him” (Matthew 11:28-30).

When I was asked at the start of the quarantine around the world to pray that the pandemic would end, this was something that I did easily and with fervor! However, after weeks and weeks and weeks of praying for the virus to end and things appearing to get worse – more people sick and dying along with conflict about where the virus came from, how we should respond, etc. – we were all reminded that to simply ask for escape from this trial was not enough. God, as always, has a bigger plan and has much He wants to teach us about prayer.

What is God trying to say through all this? What should our attitude be, and how does He want us to respond? Where can we still find a heart of worship in this strange year, even as the disciples did while imprisoned and in chains? These are the things that began very early during the weeks of prayer to resonate in my heart and mind. And yet, understandably, people were still coming online asking me to “pray for the pandemic to end” or for “success for their political candidate.”

So how do you – day after day for weeks on end – comfort complete strangers, not turn prayer into veiled lectures and yet still be mindful that you are praying to a great and awesome God whose ways are far above yours? Awkwardly, at least for me. And only by leaning into your great lack of understanding compared to God’s omnipotence and echoing the cries of the disciples for Him to “teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1).

And as He’s been teaching, I have been reminded that (as with any conversation), I can always stop, ask forgiveness for only talking and not listening, and wait to hear what the other is saying before moving forward. Awkward, but amazing.

PRAYER IS WORK

We come to prayer to get answers, to find healing, to be refreshed – and we are! And yet to really intercede is to labor in prayer. Prayer is often very exhausting, especially in this unnatural online forum. To focus personally on each person’s needs, even though you can’t see them, hear them, don’t know them, etc. its not anything that the disciples or the early Church fathers could have imagined; nor anything that Scripture speaks about specifically.

But I don’t want to be exhausted at the end of prayer time because I have tried, in my own strength, to stir up something emotionally or create an atmosphere that would maybe comfort superficially, but lack the power of God. Many times I simply stop praying, realizing that I am caught up in my empathy for someone’s pain but maybe have crossed the line into human emotion that, while not intrinsically bad, is not the aim of prayer. To be mindful of the holy, almighty God to whom we are praying, and to His power and presence alone, that can answer prayer and meet needs – this is our desire. To stay aware of this takes effort, and I have found myself humbled at times as I’ve realized I am preaching, teaching or even sympathizing, but not truly mindful of coming before a living God.

PRAYER IS GOD’S WORK

So prayer is not about me, nor ultimately is it even about the people and their needs that are asking for prayer. Prayer is about God and His place and purpose in the things that drive us to prayer, both good and bad.

One example God regularly reminds me of is the story of Jesus’ first miracle of turning the water into wine at the wedding of Cana (John 2:1-10). The need was for wine. It would’ve been natural for the servants to run around looking for wine or for money to buy wine, but instead, they were told to just wait on Jesus’ instructions. And once he spoke, they weren’t told to do anything unique, outstanding or even different than the job they most likely often did – simply fill up water jugs.

We don’t know when the water actually turned to wine. It would’ve been great if as they poured the water into the jugs it turned into wine right then. They would have had confidence carrying it to the Master of the Feast to taste. It may have, but the text doesn’t say that. How anxious the servants might have been if the wine still hadn’t appeared as they poured that first goblet. Even worse if, as the Master of the Feast began to bring it to his lips, it still remained water! But, truly, when it became sweet wine before it touched his tongue, all was well. And that was something they had no control over. They simply needed to obey and trust Jesus. That’s how it is on these prayer times.

There are those who have been coming nearly every day since these prayer times started back in March with the same prayer requests, and so far, God has not answered those prayers. It is sometimes so sad. Together we pour out and pour out the water of our prayers, and yet they have not been able to drink of God’s sweet wine in these specific areas of their lives. As we pray, I do see hearts meet with God as they are encouraged and strengthened to face the battle one more day. I have been reminded that it is not for the servant to determine when the Master will do His transforming work and turn the water to wine. My place is to simply keep doing as Jesus instructs, pouring out what I have been given to all who are seated before me.

PRAYER IS HUMBLING

In all this, I am greatly encouraged that Jesus described himself as meek and lowly (Matthew 11:29), and that it is in this reality of his nature where he said, “you will find rest for your souls.” Not in His might or power, but in His humility.

Like many of the others leading prayer times with Prayer Around the World, life often interrupts our schedules, and sometimes I’ve had to try and pray while walking, or in a car, from parks and overall from less than ideal circumstances. (Once my dog decided to throw up so loudly during prayer time that the people watching online could hear it. Fun times.) This reminds me that I don’t need to think that only polished and professional looking or sounding prayers reach the throne of God.

Or other times I’ve had a conflict with someone; I’ve been a less than stellar example of God’s love and grace, (in other words, I’ve been human), and then it’s time to go online for prayer and go before the presence of God on behalf of waiting people. (This has given me great compassion for my brothers and sisters who regularly minister on a more public and visible stage than most.) At these times, I have come online and repented, hopefully modeling to those praying with me that we are to “confess our sins to one another, and pray for one another, that we might be healed” (James 5:16). This has led to others confessing their sins and repenting online as well. It has not always been comfortable when this has happened, once or twice it has been downright unsettling. This drives me to pray for greater discernment and wisdom as we pray.

All this reminds me of Jesus and the unusual things that people did out of desperation to bring their needs to him. They grabbed his clothing; they tore up roofs; they made lavish, extravagant and dramatic gestures pouring out expensive oils and getting much closer and intimate than cultural norms would allow. So in prayer we walk toward Jesus in hardly anything that can be called “smooth operating” situations! But by His grace, we keep learning and moving toward Him.

PRAYER IS FOR DESPERATE PEOPLE

People who pray are desperate. They aren’t afraid to admit their needs. Drowning people don’t worry that their cries will bother someone; they want people to hear them – anyone who might be able to help! People who pray know two things very well: their limits and God’s limitlessness. So people that come online to pray before the world are hurting and wounded, as we all are, only these brave souls know this about themselves and are coming to Jesus to be made whole.

As God’s sheep, we need not so much to be “prayed for” as we need to be close to our Shepherd, to hear His voice, to experience His care. Leading a prayer time is simply like opening the gates of the sheepfold to welcome an expectant heart into the presence of a “God who waits to be gracious to you.” When we come expecting from Him, God gives generously in His mercy to encourage and minister to all crying out to Him.

That is why these online prayer times are not just people coming with their lists of needs. They are praying for one another. And often people share in the comments links to praise songs, portions of scripture, or even words of prophecy, wisdom, and other of the gifts of the spirit. So even when some of our churches are closed physically, we can still meet with God and fellowship with one another online; not as perfectly as in person, but still in much the same way the Early Church did with one “bringing a psalm, a teaching”, etc. (1 Corinthians 14:26).

So with the same offer that I type nearly every day in the heading for these online prayer times, “How can we pray for you and with you? Join us for prayer! God loves you so!”

Tune in for FB Live prayer sessions happening 24/7, every hour, on the Calvary Chapel FB page. Pastors/ministry leaders have agreed to host a prayer time throughout each day.

We know that God is on the throne and will help us through this time. Please join us on our Facebook page, as we come together in prayer.

God Bless,

– The CalvaryChapel.com Team

Tune In to the Live Prayer

In the past five weeks that I’ve been working from home and sheltering in place, the Lord has shown me many things about this season that He can use and is using for good. One is about how important it is to use this time of sheltering in place to reflect upon the nature of the kingdom of God: the “now/not yet” of it.

Even during these difficult times, the bodily life of Christ’s church – and the local expression of His church, of which you are a member – still exists! Press into it!

Do all you can to be faithful to it: Be that one to call a different member of your church family each day to check on them, meeting online for worship services and prayer, interacting with your brothers and sisters on social media, messaging those who prefer text messages, or writing physical letters, which arrive in mailboxes like glorious little gifts! Do all of that, knowing that the day will come when you will be together again: speaking in person, worshiping together in person, singing together in unison, praying together, not just in spirit but in body as well, sharing in the Lord’s table together, and fellowshipping and interacting in all of those personal, physical, together ways.

And as we do this, let it open your eyes to the glorious reality that, similarly, Christ’s kingdom already exists in His Body, His Church!

We are each His kingdom citizens and His citizenry is His kingdom… right now! Yes, this means we are a citizenry, physically sheltering in place in a fallen body, quarantined in a fallen, sinful world. But like the internet, He gave us even more glorious tools provided by the Spirit to be His citizens right now, spreading the message of the kingdom now while we wait for the King to return, and forever cure the virus of sin and lift the quarantine! So while we long for that day, we don’t ignore our kingdom calling and purpose in the discomfort of our current quarantine!

Stay uncomfortable with worshiping and living your church-body life online or via phone or social media.

Don’t let it become your new normal… your permanent perspective or routine. But also be vigorous to do it faithfully and with the power and creativity of the Spirit until this time passes. The same way we should have a level of uncomfortableness in these bodies of flesh and this fallen world, but one that makes us that more aware of our need to be active in it and vigorously doing what we are called to do as His body until this age passes and He returns.

“The Christian Response to the Coronavirus: Stay Home”– The New York Times
“This does not seem like the stuff of legend. What did the church do in the year of our Lord 2020 when sickness swept our land? We met in smaller groups, washed our hands and prayed. Unglamorous as this is, it may be the shape of faithfulness in our time.”

“Women You Worth Knowing: New Podcast”– Cheryl Brodersen
“Join us each week for a lively conversation between author Cheryl Brodersen and history teacher Jasmine Alnutt as they explore the lives of well-known—and not so well-known—Christian women in history. Trust us—these are definitely women worth knowing! To learn more about ministries and resources led by Cheryl, visit GraciousWords.com.”

“Church Around the World”– CalvaryChapel.com
“We will be hosting church services on the weekends at our Facebook page. Tune in to watch and participate in ‘Church Around the World!'”

“Spirit-led Preaching in a Changing World Webinar”– Expositors Collective
“The world as we know it is always changing. We have all experienced that recently with the COVID-19 crisis. In order for us to preach and teach God’s Word faithfully in an ever-changing world, we need to be led and empowered by the Holy Spirit. As part of our ongoing mission to help equip the next generation of expository Bible teachers, we are excited to announce our first-ever online event: an interactive webinar on May 9, 2020 from 9-11 AM Pacific Standard Time.”

“CGN-Leading in COVID-19 New Episodes”– Calvary Global Network
“We have new episodes available! Ministry leaders from the network share what they are currently doing to make a difference. These short episodes are perfect for the busy pastor looking for ideas on how to serve the body in this moment.”

“Where is God in a Coronavirus World?”– Sanctus Media Ltd.
“An interview with the author of ‘Where is God in a Coronavirus World?’, Professor John Lennox. Interviewed by TV Producer, Iain Morris, CEO, Kharis Productions.”

“Talking with Your Kids about Jesus: Conversation with Author Natasha Crain”– Dr. Sean McDowell
“What are the best ways to discuss Jesus with your kids? What are some practical strategies to engage young people? Sean will interview author and blogger Natasha Crain and take live questions from viewers. Join us!”

“Devotional on Psalm 5:11-12”– David Guzik
“This is a daily devotional by Pastor David Guzik. Enduring Words for Troubled Times”

“Jay Richards on How the Warfare Thesis Ignores the Roots of Science”– Discovery Institute
“Listen in as Richards rebuts the warfare thesis – the idea that religion and science are antagonists – and argues that historically, Judeo-Christian culture “was the seedbed from which science emerged.” Has science missed out by being partnered with materialism?”

“Hindu Priest”– Undeceptions with John Dickson
“Much of the world believes you are what you are born to be, a product of your family rearing and social circumstance. But what if after more than twenty years of dedicated service to one god, you come to believe you belong to another?”

The Link is a collection of content from around the web, discussing topics in culture, theology, ministry and current events. CalvaryChapel.com does not necessarily endorse or agree with every message or perspective in the diverse pieces posted on The Link. By providing The Link, we hope to help you stay informed of important events and conversations taking place in the world that are relevant to the Christian faith.

“Rhythms for Life: Google Searches for Prayer, Facing our Fears and How Jesus Taught us to Pray”– Reality Church London
“Why are people searching the internet to learn about prayer in times of crisis? Why is Christian prayer so unique? And how does the Lord’s Prayer help us deal with our fears? In this episode Pastor Tim Chaddick is joined by Al Abdulla, Founding Pastor of Reality Church Boston, as they unpack the discipline of prayer.”

“Where is God in a Coronavirus World?”– Unbelievable?
“John Lennox, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics and Philosophy of Science at the University of Oxford talks to Justin Brierley about God, evil and COVID-19.”

“Social Distancing: Staying Apart, But Staying Connected” – CalvaryChapel.com
“As much of the world is now on lockdown, meaning that voluntary physical distancing became physical distancing through a government order, I wanted us as believers all over the world to consider the difference between ‘social distancing’ and ‘physical distancing.'”

“Bart Ehrman’s Latest Attack on Christianity”– The Gospel Coalition
“Whenever I read an Ehrman book, déjà vu kicks in. His core message is always: “Christians are dead wrong; I know because I used to be one before I became enlightened.” Each of Ehrman’s books deals with something else Christians are wrong about; and his newest, Heaven and Hell: A History of the Afterlife, is another volume in his expanding canon of deconversion doctrine.”

“A Holy Week Amid a National Tribulation”– The Wall Street Journal
“‘Hardship generally makes people stronger,’ a social psychologist observes. What will we learn?”

“Tim Keller: People will say ‘I came to Christ during the virus’”– Premier Christianity
“We ask the New York based pastor and author Tim Keller why God is allowing coronavirus and what the pandemic means for the Church and the world”

“Jesus Will Come As a Thief”– Back to Basics
“The final reason why I believe the rapture will occur before the tribulation, to me, seals the argument. There are many passages in the New Testament that speak of Jesus coming as a thief.”

The Link is a collection of content from around the web, discussing topics in culture, theology, ministry and current events. CalvaryChapel.com does not necessarily endorse or agree with every message or perspective in the diverse pieces posted on The Link. By providing The Link, we hope to help you stay informed of important events and conversations taking place in the world that are relevant to the Christian faith.

As much of the world is now on lockdown, meaning that voluntary physical distancing became physical distancing through a government order, I wanted us as believers all over the world to consider the difference between “social distancing” and “physical distancing.”

Social Distancing vs. Physical Distancing

Rather than term what we are all doing as “social distancing,” would it not be better to refer to this as “physical distancing?”

Here’s why this is important:

• Social distancing means that we are isolated socially, not in touch with anybody, alone, feeling abandoned and definitely not part of a loving and living body of people (1 Corinthians 12:12).

• Physical distancing is simply just that; you don’t get too close to people. This is a small difference in choice of words, but a huge difference in understanding, acceptance, and consequently, practice.

For the sake of others, let us practice physical distancing willingly and obediently. Let us be the model citizens the Word calls us to be (Romans 13:1) and exemplify those who put into practice the instructions of our respective national governments that are given for the good of all.

The church is still the church despite physical distance. Nothing will stop the church being the church. Nothing. Jesus said that, on the bedrock truth that He is the Son of God, nothing would ever prevail against the church (Matthew 16:18), and being physically distant from each other for a fixed period of time will certainly not. So, valuing others more highly than ourselves, let us willingly practice physical distancing.

During this unprecedented time, we have a wonderful opportunity to see if the church is really the church.

We will see if this body of people is self-supporting, self-sustaining and self-supplicating (James 5:16).

• Is the church reaching out to the community?
• Is the church meeting the needs found therein?
• Is the church bathing its members in prayer?

We will see if this body of people is Kingdom focused or kingdom-focused (Matthew 6:24).

Is the church focused on God’s plans and purposes during this time, or is the church focused on the things that have been postponed or cancelled. Is the church focused on the programmes or the people?

We will see if the church is filling its God-given mandate to make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).

On any given Sunday (or Friday for me), the actual work of the church is usually done by a select few, those “on staff” maybe, or the faithful few who understand that serving the Lord through serving His people is not optional for the believer. Now that this physically cannot be the case, we will see whether the church family at large will spring into action and be the hands and feet of our Lord.

We will see if there is fruit and a root (James 2:14-26).

What we do always shows what we believe, so this time of enforced change will quickly bring to the surface through our actions what we hold dear and where we are willing to invest our time, talent and treasure. Does our fruit match what we claim to be our root?

Simply, we will see if this called-out-of-the-world group of people really are fully regenerate born again believers, part of the living body of Christ, or just a group of consumers who turn up to watch a religious TEDTalk once a week.

This is going to sting for some; this is going to turn some away (John 6:60), but for those truly part of the body, this is going to be a defining period of time, a call to action, a call to take up arms, a call to show that, yes, we are the church. We aren’t going anywhere; we are here for each other and for the world.

Brother, sisters, in a spirit of deferential love, let us willingly practice physical distancing, but let us not now nor ever be a church that is comfortable with social distancing. Let us come together, socially and spiritually, and show the world that we are the church today, tomorrow and every day.

“Michael Behe on COVID-19, Chloroquine, Malaria and the Edge of Evolution”– Discovery Institute
“On this episode of ID the Future, biochemist Michael Behe and host Andrew McDiarmid discuss the anti-malarial drug chloroquine, now being investigated as a treatment for COVID-19, and how it may work on the cellular level against the coronavirus.”

“CGN–Leading During COVID-19″– Calvary Global Network
“We’ve started a short-form podcast where different leaders in our network share what they are currently doing to make a difference. Each episode is short and to the point, perfect for the busy pastor looking for inspiration and ideas on how to serve the body in this moment.”

“Wheaton’s Ed Stetzer Ramps Up to Resource Churches During Pandemic”– Wheaton College
“Billy Graham Center Executive Director Ed Stetzer applies his legendary energy to serving the global church amid the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“Help During The Exodus To Online”– Expositors Collective
“Ricky Ponce has served in Europe for the past 15 years and is currently an Elder at Calvary Cork and leading the A/V ministry.”

“Watch Your (Knowledge) Diet in the COVID-19 Crisis”– The Gospel Coalition
“In a world like this—with more and more information but less and less wisdom—what are we to do? How can we stay sane, mentally and spiritually healthy, and wise?”

“Contentment in the Midst of Quarantine – Part 1”– GoodLion Podcast Network
“How can followers of Jesus practice contentment while living in this discouraging moment of COVID-19? Aaron and Brian discuss the vices of discontentment and comparison in creativity, ministry, and daily life.”

“Why is God Allowing Evil?”– CalvaryChapel.com
“Any honest thinker would justifiably question where God is in all this, or at least try to make sense of God in relation to evil. There are eight principles to consider when wrestling with this question.”

“Tom on Coronavirus, Self-Isolating and Praying Through Crisis”– Ask NT Wright Anything Podcast
“In a podcast special recorded from his home in Oxford where he is self-isolating with his wife Maggie, Tom talks to Justin about the Coronavirus pandemic. They cover: How Christians can maintain spiritual health during isolation, the pastoral implications for churches now and in the future, and why God created a world where disease and sickness exist.”

“Rhythms for Life: Google Searches for Prayer, Facing our Fears and How Jesus Taught us to Pray”– Reality Church London
“Why are people searching the internet to learn about prayer in times of crisis? Why is Christian prayer so unique? And how does the Lord’s Prayer help us deal with our fears? In this episode, Pastor Tim Chaddick is joined by Al Abdulla, Founding Pastor of Reality Church Boston, as they unpack the discipline of prayer.”

“New Research: Churches Going Digital, While Offerings Drop”– The Gospel Coalition
“The new research shows a massive swing toward digital avenues of connection and communication, as well as an alarming drop in giving. Right now, we’re seeing churches take advantage of technological tools while bracing for significant financial challenges”

“A Post-Tribulational Rapture Leaves No Sheep to Separate from the Goats”– Back to Basics
“Here is the problem: If the Rapture is post-tribulational and not pre-tribulational, then when the Lord comes back to the earth, there not going to be any sheep to separate from the goats. That separation would have already taken place at the Rapture.”

The Link is a collection of content from around the web, discussing topics in culture, theology, ministry and current events. CalvaryChapel.com does not necessarily endorse or agree with every message or perspective in the diverse pieces posted on The Link. By providing The Link, we hope to help you stay informed of important events and conversations taking place in the world that are relevant to the Christian faith.

“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?

“So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?

“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matthew 6:25–34).

There is a lot of fear in the air, but it’s not due to just the Coronavirus. Many are also living in fear of the immediate and long-term economic ramifications of this global crisis. Already, people are out of work because of the mandatory shutdowns of many businesses. Some are being let go in an attempt to scale back in preparation for the future, and many are wondering if their businesses are going to survive this crisis.

In a podcast entitled, “Leading Beyond the Blizzard: Why Every Organization Is Now a Startup,” the authors said, “Due to the complex and interconnected nature of our society and economy, the majority of businesses and nonprofits are ‘effectively out of business’ as of today, in that the underlying assumptions that sustained their organization are no longer true.”¹

Now, whether that statement is true or not, the fact remains that these are uncertain times, and anxiety, fear and the temptation to worry are at heightened levels, to say the least.

The truth is, no one knows the future except God, and the God who knows all things has told us, His children, “Do not worry about your life … For your heavenly Father knows what you need.”

I want to walk us through this wonderful passage, which has personally ministered to me so many times over the years, and draw from it the lessons and encouragement available for us at this time in history.

The Word for Those Who Worry

In this section of Matthew, Jesus uses the word “worry” no less than six times. The root word speaks of “anxiety about things pertaining to this earthly life.”

Jesus said we are to look at the birds and remember that our heavenly Father feeds them. We are to consider the flowers and marvel that the Lord gloriously clothes them even though they neither “toil nor spin.”

The One from Whom the Word Came

Jesus—the One who calmed the storm and sea, fed thousands with five loaves and two fish, turned water into wine, cleansed the lepers, healed the sick and raised the dead—this Jesus is:

“… The image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. … by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him, all things consist. And He is also the head of the body, the church …” (Colossians 1:15–18).

God the Father “… spoke to our ancestors thought the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through who also he made the universe. The son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word” (Hebrews 1:1–3).

When Jesus says not to worry or to take anxious thought about our lives, we should listen and take to heart what He says.

The Overarching Message

In the days and weeks to come, remember these truths and put His words into practice:

• God is your heavenly Father, and He values you far above the world of nature that He faithfully cares for.

• Don’t spend your time fretting and worrying about things you have no control over. Unbelievers do that. But this is not to be the case with the people of God.

• Cast “all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

• Finally, “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” All that you need will be taken care of by God.

The antidote to fear and anxiety is faith and assurance that your heavenly Father knows what you need. If you are a believer, you can trust Him. However, if you cannot say with absolute confidence that you are a child of God, you can become one today. But you have to make that decision. Receive Him as your Lord and Savior, and receive the forgiveness of sins.

The words to a classic hymn came to mind as I was studying through this passage. Praying these words encourage you today.

1 This is my Father’s world,
And to my listening ears
All nature sings, and round me rings
The music of the spheres.
This is my Father’s world:
I rest me in the thought
Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas—
His hand the wonders wrought.

2 This is my Father’s world:
The birds their carols raise,
The morning light, the lily white,
Declare their Maker’s praise.
This is my Father’s world:
He shines in all that’s fair;
In the rustling grass I hear Him pass,
He speaks to me everywhere.

3 This is my Father’s world:
O let me ne’er forget
That though the wrong seems oft so strong,
God is the Ruler yet.
This is my Father’s world:
Why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is King: let the heavens ring!
God reigns; let earth be glad!
—Maltbie D. Babcock

_{This article was taken from Pastor Brian Brodersen’s message, “Your Heavenly Father Knows What You Need,” on March 22, 2020. To listen to it in full, go to cccm.com. There, will you find this and other helpful resources.}

_Notes:

_{¹ Crouch, Andy, Kurt Keilhacker, and Dave Blanchard. “Leading Beyond the Blizzard: Why Every Organization Is Now a Startup.” The Praxis Journal. 20, March 2020. Web. 30 March, 2020.}

Many today are questioning how, if God is loving and good, how could God allow the coronavirus (COVID-19) to cause so much pain and suffering and to take so many lives. Let’s face it, it does look bleak out there, pain and suffering, quarantine, the stock market is crashing, various sports clubs have suspended their seasons, restaurants and entertainment centers are shuttered, economic activity has slowed to a trickle, and the country is locked down in quarantine. Any honest thinker would justifiably question where God is in all this, or at least try to make sense of God in relation to evil.

There are eight principles to consider when wrestling with this question:

1. Evil is not a material thing.

Our first inclination is to think of the coronavirus as “pure evil” due to its devastating effects on human life. Though invisible to the unaided eye, the virus is very much part of the material world. However, we run into a problem knowing that when God created everything in the material world, He called it “good,” including bacteria and viruses. This leads us to consider that “if God created everything, and evil is a material thing (and viruses are things), it follows that God directly created evil.” On the surface, this argument seems formidable. However, when we realize that it’s impossible for an all-good God to directly create evil, we are left with the question:

If God created everything, and evil is a thing (evil is not an illusion), then how can we not blame God for evil? The answer to this conundrum was given 1,500 years ago through the writings of St. Augustine, Bishop of Hippo. Evil is not a material thing, it is a lack of what should be present in good things. For example, a broken arm could only be possible if there is a good arm to break. Or a hole in your best shirt is a lack of cloth in the place it should be present. In other words, evil is not a material thing per se, though it’s certainly real. Rather, it’s a privation, absence, lack or a hole in things. Therefore, evil in-and-of-itself is not a thing, nor does it have any existence at all apart from some good host it corrupts.

2. God does not cause evil but does permit it to occur.

An all-loving and All-good and moral God cannot cause evil, or will or not will evil, but according to Scripture and life experience, He does permit it. Permitting evil is necessary to produce higher goods in free creatures. There is no courage without danger; no patience and perseverance without tribulation; no character without adversity; no gain with no pain! In addition, evil must be permitted if God was to make man truly free. Freedom is what makes love, life, praise and blame meaningful.

That is to say, though God made evil possible, man made evil actual through his misuse of freedom. God gave the fact of freedom; man performs the acts of freedom. To blame God for making evil possible would be like blaming Henry Ford for all automobile accidents since he made them possible. Finally, and perhaps the most significant of all reasons [for] that God may have for allowing evil today, God would have to eliminate freedom in order to eliminate evil, since evil arises from free decisions. And if freedom is abolished, human beings can no longer be saved. Matthew said to let the wheat and the tares grow side by side until the end, lest we do damage to the wheat (Matthew 13:24-30). God will eventually bring evil to a total end, but for now, there are many more that need to be saved.

3. Permitting evil is the best way forward.

Why would God create this world if he knew pain and suffering (evil) would occur? It would seem an All-powerful God had other options instead of creating a world where evil was possible. Most would agree that our world is not the best possible world, but it is the best possible way to get to the best possible world with free creatures involved. To permanently defeat the possibility of evil and death, you must defeat evil and death. In God’s wisdom, He created a world in which total victory could be achieved with free human beings, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Adam and Eve had a big problem in their pre-fallen state, as perfect as they were in a perfect garden, they still had the potential to be tempted, sin, suffer and die.

Fortunately, God has a plan to solve this problem through the person and work of Christ, in whom we can look forward to a blissful eternal life where these evil “potentials” will not be possible. Some question whether God has victory or is morally just when some are eternally separated from Him. However, God would only be unjust if there were someone in hell that shouldn’t be there. It’s actually a testimony to God’s respect for human autonomy and free will of those who choose to be separated from Him. Saving everyone (universalism) is not the criteria for victory, rather, saving all who freely receive is victory. Some in heaven and some in hell is better than no people in heaven and no one in hell. Half of a loaf of bread is better than no loaf at all.

4. The world is fallen and awaiting redemption.

Since the first sin by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, our material world resides under a fallen and decaying state barreling toward corruption and death. This unfortunate situation was precipitated by the devil and disobedience to God’s commands. The sad consequence of sin is physical and spiritual death. Paul says even creation groans to be released from corruption (Romans 8:19-23). The implications of our sin in a fallen world is often felt when nature rears its dark side. There is nothing evil, not even the coronavirus, about the material world, since all material was created by God. However, there is a bad (non-moral, physically evil) relationship between COVID-19 and the human respiratory system. This evil is made possible due to a fallen people living in a fallen world. Because of Christ’s death on the cross for our sins, and resurrection from the grave, we look forward to a time when there will be no more pain, suffering and death.

5. Awareness of evil leads to sober reflection.

We often learn our greatest life-lessons in times of pain and suffering. Realizing our own frailty and mortality lends itself to consider the value of life which otherwise would not be given a second thought during good times. In this sense, death becomes a universal preacher to sober our thinking about what really matters, life, family, God, and doing the good. This awareness also encourages us to enjoy the good times when they arrive and maintain a thankful heart for the pleasures of life. Ultimately, we cultivate a sense of urgency knowing that our time on earth is limited. Often, humility is the result of sober reflection.

6. The benefits of evil.

Most are quick to express their disdain for evil and its tragic effects, while at the same time slow to recognize that the presence of evil in the world often cultivates growth in character. The Bible makes clear that trials in our life will produce patience and endurance (James 1:2-4; Romans 5:3-4; 2 Peter 2:20). Without pain and suffering, there could be no compassion or empathy; without great need, there could be no servanthood; without trial, there is no perseverance, patience or courage; without the sickness, there can be no physical or spiritual healing or wholeness.

We need to remind ourselves that Christ’s suffering and death led to eternal life, resurrection and lasting peace for those who receive His sacrifice. To be certain, how one responds to evil is important, since not every response leads to growth. There are those who deal with evil by hardening their heart against God and become increasingly selfish. There is truth in the saying “You can become bitter or better,” depending how you deal with evil when it comes knocking.

7. It’s self-defeating to reject God because of evil.

Some use the presence of pain, suffering and evil as an argument against the existence of God. They say if God was All-good, All-loving and All-powerful, He could and would destroy evil. Since evil is not destroyed, there is no such God that is All-loving, good or powerful. God is either unjust, indifferent to evil, or does not exist at all. On the surface, it appears to be a formidable objection to God. In actuality, it is an argument for the reality of God. Former Oxford University scholar and atheist, C.S. Lewis, held a form of this position, but finally realized its flaw. He wrote:

“My argument was that the universe seemed so cruel and unjust. But how had I got this idea of just and unjust. A man does not call a line crooked unless he has some idea of a straight line… Of course I could have given up my idea of justice by saying it was nothing but a private idea of my own. But if I did that, then my argument against God collapsed too…” (Lewis, Mere Christianity, 45).

Lewis recognized that his argument unwittingly assumed there existed an ultimate standard by which to claim the world fell short. It made his argument against God arbitrary, no better than the next person’s reasons. In essence, his argument against God from evil fails since one cannot rationally claim the world is getting better or worse without an objective standard by which to measure it. That is to say, we can’t know something is “not-just” unless we know what is ultimately just. Therefore, the argument against God turns out to be an argument for God.

8. There are purposes for pain and suffering.

Besides gaining character virtues through enduring evil, there are also recognizable purposes for evil that yield practical benefits. It’s important to understand that God has good purposes for everything, including evil, even if we are not aware of them (Deuteronomy 29:29). Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, forced into Egypt and cast into jail for a crime he didn’t commit.

Eventually, God placed him in a position of authority and used him in a mighty way to preserve the entire region (including his family) from starvation, as well as preserve the lineage of the Messiah. Joseph recognized God’s purposes when he said to his brothers, “But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive” (Genesis 50:20). What is more, adversity often leads us to rely on God’s comfort. And this comfort we experienced can, in turn, be offered to comfort others (2 Corinthian 1:4). Further, trials in life can lead us to become less selfish (2 Corinthians 1:9). Moreover, pain and suffering can serve as an alarm to prevent greater evils (Exodus 20:12). A toothache is a warning sign to prevent greater problems if left unattended (e.g. root-canal). In other words, God can use pain and suffering to get our attention (Jonah 2) and change our priorities for our own good (Jonah 4).

C.S. Lewis insightfully comments: “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world” (Lewis, The Problem of Pain, 81).

God cares about human suffering, and this is the reason Christ gave his life (John 3:16). Paul places our trials in perspective when he wrote, “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:17).

How can followers of Jesus practice contentment while living in this discouraging moment of COVID-19? Aaron and Brian discuss the vices of discontentment and comparison in creativity, ministry, and daily life.

––––

The GoodLion podcast is a show by Aaron Salvato and Brian Higgins, the founders of CGN’s GoodLion Podcast Network. Each episode, their goal is to ask hard questions, push past easy answers and always look to Jesus, the God who is not safe but is very good.

“How Are Pastors Handling Ungathered Worship?”– Christianity Today
“Six church leaders share about their adaptations, innovations, and frustrations as they respond to COVID-19.”

“Prayer Around the World”– Calvary Chapel
“We will be hosting a one-hour FB Live prayer time every day. We have pastors who have agreed to host a prayer time each day. We know that God is on the throne and will help us through this time. Please join us on our Facebook page, starting tomorrow, as we come together in prayer. God Bless. – The CalvaryChapel.com Team”

“CGN Shelter in Place Resource List”– CalvaryChapel.com
“While many are under ‘shelter in place,’ lock-down, quarantine or self-isolation orders from their local governments, the team at CGN wanted to provide a list of resources to help encourage, educate, and edify you, your families and your churches. While many of us are still working from home, and some might be busier during this global crisis than we usually might be, we all are experiencing a dramatic increase in time at home.”

“Update from China”–InFu Yin
“那一天，就是封城的第二天, That day, the second day after the lockdown,
也是我和妻子的结婚纪念日 which was also the anniversary of our marriage,
我们到了第一批口罩, we got the first supply of masks (sent by Christians over the nation )”

“The CARES Act & Your Church Staff: What You Need to Know & 4 Steps to Take Now”– Christianity Today
“The new stimulus bill includes churches and has implication for church staff. Please learn more before making any staff decisions.”

“God Doesn’t Want Us to Sacrifice the Old”– The New York Times
“Christianity teaches that every single human life is valuable, even during a pandemic.”

“COVID-19 Screening Tool”– Apple
“This tool can help you understand what to do next about COVID-19. Let’s all look out for each other by knowing our status, trying not to infect others, and reserving care for those in need.”

“These Days I Preach to an Empty Room. But I See My Church Clearer Than Ever.”– The Washington Post
“In other words, every Sunday of this crisis, I still see the church. I see people who are hurting, and I see people who are helping. I see people who are struggling, and I see people who are serving. Maybe the best way to put it is: Every Sunday, I see thousands of men and women scattered across our city who believe that now more than ever is the time to look to God for hope and to love our neighbors as ourselves.”

“Hope in Troubling Times: Peace Within the Global Pandemic”– CalvaryChapel.com
“To be afraid and troubled by such things is a perfectly normal first response, even for a Christian. But it’s not the place we are to remain. In speaking to His troubled and frightened followers, Jesus said, ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled’ (John 14:1, NIV). A troubled heart is quite often due to fear, and the apostle John told us, ‘fear involves torment.’ But he also said, ‘perfect love casts out fear’ (1 John 4:18).”

“How to Understand – and Report – Figures for ‘Covid Deaths’”– The Spectator
“The UK and other governments have no control over how their data is reported, but they can minimise the potential for misinterpretation by making absolutely clear what its figures are, and what they are not. After this episode is over, there is a clear need for an internationally coordinated update of how deaths are attributed and recorded, to enable us to better understand what is happening more clearly, when we need to.”

“Crisis is Coming”– Ed Stetzer
“I am not much of a “this is the most important thing I’ve ever said” person, but right now on Facebook Live is what I think is one of the most important things I will ever share. THIS is not the crisis and we need to pivot and prepare for the new month.”

“Greg Laurie: Coronavirus Scares Us – Here’s How not to Worry”– Fox News
“Medical experts have determined that worry can disease our body’s nervous and digestive systems, cause depression and shorten your life. It makes sense why Jesus asked, ‘Can all of your worries add a single moment to your life?’ Now, I know the experts tell us this, but the Bible said it a long time ago in Proverbs 12:25: ‘Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression.'”

The Link is a collection of content from around the web, discussing topics in culture, theology, ministry and current events. CalvaryChapel.com does not necessarily endorse or agree with every message or perspective in the diverse pieces posted on The Link. By providing The Link, we hope to help you stay informed of important events and conversations taking place in the world that are relevant to the Christian faith.

Hey church leaders. We know this is a challenging moment for all of you as you do your best to lead your people well during crisis. To that end, we’ve started a short-form podcast where different leaders in our network share what they are currently doing to make a difference. Each episode is short and to the point, perfect for the busy pastor looking for inspiration and ideas on how to serve the body in this moment.

Update: Podcast is now available on apple podcasts (Search for CGN: Leading), on our website, or on Spotify as well.

If you would like to contribute to this podcast by sharing something, please get in touch with our podcast director: aaronsalvato@calvarychapel.flywheelsites.com

As a free-spirited extrovert, I fill my cup by being around people. The thought of being locked in my house by governmental mandate goes against every natural grain in my body and soul. That being said, I do believe that God has a plan and a purpose for every season of life and that it is wise to pay extra attention to the difficult ones.

When my husband and I saw confinement speeding around the corner, we tried to prepare both the church and our family as much as possible. We knew that some things such as baptisms, weddings and personal visits to suffering people, had to happen either before or after the confinement. It was a flurry of movement as we found ourselves doing things, like renting a hotel room near the church to conduct a baptism for a refugee couple because the room we rent for the church isn’t properly equipped. Our service was beautiful. It looked and felt as I imagine a first-century church service.

A few days later, we celebrated a wedding for a couple in the church. During the meal, we received the news. The French government announced that we were in confinement for the unforeseeable future. As the media announced progressively overnight the new organization of public life, we didn’t find out until we went to church the next day: that holding a church service would be illegal.

Yes. Just like that, we could no longer hold services. Fortunately, friends in Tahiti had been asking us to film our services for them, so we already had some of the necessary material ready. Against everything within me, I had to call people on our way to church and tell them not to come. It broke my heart. One lady responded, “The devil is NOT going to keep me from going to church.” I answered, “I am not the devil, but we have to respect the laws of the country and hold service online.” So we went to the church building and held our first online service for CC Paris.

Then we went home—the reality hit.

We could no longer go out of the house. That means, whenever there is a bad mood, conflict, fatigue, or fill in the blank, there is no escape. This can be daunting, especially knowing there is no exact end-date. If we need to leave, we have to fill out an authorization paper, or there is a fine ( $145 for the first offense; $1,613 for the second, if you break confinement). This causes a lot of stress on everyone! In the first week, the government fined over 90,000 people breaking confinement!

I’ve been reflecting on confinement and about God’s hand in this. I know God has kindness in store for us during this confinement. Not evil but good. I was reminded that God is the God of order, not confusion. Not of fear, but peace. He has a specific plan for each one of us during this season to come. Many of us will be in good health or will be mildly sick during this confinement. It will be a good time to deal with issues that we have become accustomed to saying, “I am too busy to deal with that now.” Now we aren’t too busy. We can take this time and work things out. Talk to the people around you. Internet lines will be saturated because everyone in the community is at home trying to work. But it will end up being a good thing because we will have to work differently. We will have to work on our communication, and it will be raw at times. We will just have each other and the Lord.

When you can’t turn to the things in your life that you normally do – you can deal with the why’s.

• Why do I turn to retail therapy rather than just talk things out with my teens or my husband?

• Why would I spend so much time with my friends and so little with my family?

• Why am I so given to…?

A little introspection is a good thing. It helps us to grow and develop when we bring these things to God. He can help us through it. He can use this moment, this quiet moment—or for those of us with children in the house—this very noisy moment, to speak to us. He can reach into the depths of our souls and heal those areas that need healing. We might be thankful for the confinement in the end.

A friend from China wrote to me a few days ago and shared about how mentally taxing it becomes after a while. She made it through, and by God’s grace, we can too. Please take care of yourselves and your loved ones as we all lean more into Jesus. We have God on our side. He walks with us and shelters us in the shadow of His wing. What is the worst that can happen to us? As it says in Psalm 91:1-2:

“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most-High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.'”