Introduction

Understanding the times we are in is crucial for our walk with God, our Christian faith, and our preparedness for Christ's return. In 1 Chronicles 12:23-32, the Bible lists men who were ready for war. Among them were the sons of Judah, Simeon, Levi, Benjamin, Ephraim, and Manasseh. However, the sons of Issachar stood out because they had understanding of the times. They discerned what was happening and knew how to respond accordingly. Spiritual understanding is rare, but we must strive to be among those who grasp the times we are in.

Understanding the Times

We are all aware of the coronavirus and its impact on every aspect of our lives. It has caused disruptions, closures, and restrictions in various sectors. While it is important to follow health precautions, there is more that God wants us to do in these times. We must not only focus on physical measures but also seek spiritual understanding.

To understand the times, we need to align what is happening with the Word of God. The Bible confirms that events like the coronavirus will precede the coming of Christ (Matthew 24:3-8). While we cannot predict the exact timing of His return, we should be prepared and live each day as if it were our last. Our prayer should be to live for Christ, not just protect ourselves from the virus.

Seeking Spiritual Understanding

In times of crisis, we must humble ourselves before God and seek His mercy (2 Chronicles 7:13-14). It is not productive to blame governments or institutions for their response. Instead, we should turn to God, confess our sins, and repent. Our focus should be on seeking His face and aligning ourselves with His will.

This is also a time for personal and corporate revival. We need to intensify our prayer lives and seek God's intervention. Prayer is essential for protection, healing, and deliverance. We must pray fervently and effectively, both individually and as a church. Our prayers can make a difference in the lives of those affected by the virus and in the decisions of leaders.

Seeking divine exemption and protection is another important aspect. We should pray for God's covering and ask Him to shield us from harm. Just as He protected the Israelites during the plagues in Egypt, He can protect us from the coronavirus. We should also pray for the doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers on the frontlines, asking God to keep them safe.

Walking in Faith and Peace

In these uncertain times, we must walk in the peace of God and not succumb to fear (Philippians 4:7). Fear weakens our faith and hinders our ability to trust in God. We should rebuke the spirit of fear and ask God to fill our hearts with His peace. Despite the chaos around us, we can find comfort in knowing that God is in control.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the times we are in is crucial for our spiritual growth and preparedness. We must align ourselves with God's Word, humble ourselves before Him, seek revival through prayer, ask for divine protection, and walk in His peace. May the peace of God be with us all as we navigate these challenging times.

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