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Don’t let the Coronavirus or anything else distract you from the promises of God, or rob you of living the life God has given you. Live for Jesus in the midst of this, and you may come out on the other side, as we do so many of the trials of our lives, saying, “God, you taught me more and drew me closer to you through this crisis than any other time of my life.”

This article by Ray Ortlund is thought-provoking and on target. Though his advice focuses on young men in ministry, his message is applicable for every believer of every age and vocation. Ray writes, “Only men with scars can preach a Savior with scars to sinners with scars. So, in addition to the many insights and skills God will impart to you, he also will wound you."

I hope the following links and resources will be helpful in providing encouragement and biblical perspective to churches, families, and individuals. —Randy Alcorn

Once I heard a pastor say, “I’m tired of hearing people tritely use Romans 8:28.” So am I. But I am not tired of Romans 8:28 itself and pray that I never will be. When you use this powerfully explosive verse (and you should use it), handle it with care. But whatever you do, don’t stay away from it. 

A friend recently shared the following from Corrie ten Boom. What she had to say about worry and God’s provision is wonderfully applicable today, especially with the fears over the coronavirus.

Over the years Greg Laurie has become a dear friend. He has written a powerful article about what it means to be a pastor—specifically the difficulties and privileges. Knowing Greg and having dear friends who are pastors, I can attest to the truth of this article. I hope it helps you to understand and pray for your pastors.

In my book Heaven, I share how years ago, Nanci read me letters we’d never before seen translated, written in 1920 by her grandmother Anna Swanson to her family in Sweden. Anna suffered severe health problems. While she was in Montana, cared for by relatives, her husband, Edwin, was in Oregon, working and caring for their seven children day and night.

Randy writes, “Death is not a natural part of life as God intended it. It is the unnatural result of evil.” Would it be too Calvinistic of me to say, “I disagree”? Saying death was outside God’s plan would suggest He did not have control, and that something could thwart His plan.

I recently had the privilege of visiting the Joni and Friends headquarters in Agoura Hills, California. While I was there, I was asked to record a few episodes for their podcast, including one about the journey Nanci and I have been on since her diagnosis with colon cancer in early 2018.  We talked about our relationship, hope, and practical ways to encourage those who are facing similar challenges.

In 2020, Randy gave a message for the Kingdom Advisors 2020 Annual Conference on 1 Timothy 6.

Most of us don’t give focused thought to evil and suffering until we experience them. This forces us to formulate perspective on the fly, at a time when our thinking is muddled and we’re exhausted and consumed by pressing issues. Those of you who have “been there” will attest that it’s far better to think through suffering in advance.

In my experience, when I have followed the Lord step by step, He has provided the courage I needed in increments. He’s the one who tells us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).  

Those who choose to follow Jesus instead of their own path enjoy the peace and freedom of living the way He made us to live. And one day they will receive what they want most: life with Him on the New Earth where all the old bad stuff will be wiped away.

The idea that joy and happiness are synonyms can be radical to many readers. In response to a post I shared about happiness, a sincerely concerned person wrote me, “Joy, peace, and contentment do not equal happiness.” To some, the difference between the two words is as central as believing in the deity of Christ or the resurrection!