God’s hand is in this
When I tested positive for COVID-19 in late April, I let out a big sigh.
Things always have a way of going left with you, Dianna, my mind told me. This will be no different, so brace yourself for a bumpy ride!
Immediately, I had to consciously fight fear and trust God for a good outcome.
One of my seven brothers, Joseph, the oldest, died in December due to complications from coronavirus. Having that in the back of my mind only created more anxiety within me. But I was determined not to feed into fearfulness and anxiousness despite having valid reasons for concern.
Adding to my causes for worry, my whole family—my husband Kenya and all four of our children—tested positive for the virus. Everyone was symptomatic. Being that I am immunocompromised and have been diagnosed with anxiety, this unfortunate set of circumstances woke up the worrywart in me. Worst-case scenarios ran through my mind.
But, again, I was determined not to feed into fear, so I didn’t.
Instead, I confessed God’s word. Even on my most miserable days, I believed and declared the good report of the Lord. When my husband and children were ill and weak, I refused to panic. And the more I trusted God, the more His peace washed over me. I refused to allow any diagnosis—physical or mental—to determine my response.
Yesterday, I tested negative for the virus. Everyone in the family is now officially COVID-free.
Thank You, Jesus!
Even during our collective bout with sickness, by God’s grace, there were no COVID-related emergencies or symptoms severe enough to warrant hospitalization. It could have been another way, which is why I am immensely grateful.
As I thanked the Lord for bringing my family through the latest storm, I also pondered the importance of believing the report of the Lord during seasons of struggle. That’s when God led me to Isaiah 53:1. The first portion of that verse asks a question: “Who has believed our report?” (NKJV)
The second half of this passage says, “Who could have seen the LORD's hand in this?” (GNT)
“God told me to tell you, His hand is working behind the scenes. Even though you can’t see it right now, believe it. Change is coming!”
This entire chapter outlines the suffering of Christ, the One who bore our iniquities and purchased our redemption with His blood. To look at what Jesus was going through on its face—all the pain, humiliation, and rejection—He appeared to be defeated. But just the opposite was true. Through the devastation, torment, and suffering of crucifixion, Christ secured eternal life for us and has been exalted above all others.
Before the fulness of God’s plan was revealed, however, Isaiah 53:1 asks, who would believe this report? Who would be able to see beyond circumstances that look so bleak and cling to hope for a victorious outcome? Who could trust that God would bring something so good out of a situation so bad?
Who could have seen the Lord’s hand in this?
Sometimes, friend, the Lord allows you to go through difficulties and distressing trials to get glory and accomplish His will. And He sent me to tell you something: even before you see the good outcome, you must believe the report of the Lord. In the face of turmoil, you must stand fast and remain steadfast. Confess the promises of God.
Know that His hand is working—yes, even in this. Even in uncomfortable, unfair, undesirable, and uncertain times, God’s hand is in this.
If you remain confident in Him, you will see the manifestation of divine favor, the demonstration of His mighty power, and the sure salvation of the Lord.
Trust Him in all things and believe, no matter what. His report says you are healed, delivered, redeemed, blessed, and positioned to reap a harvest.
Always remember, your circumstances don’t change His report. Instead, His report changes your circumstances if you believe.
His report says, according to Mark 9:23 NLT—which is what I’m stirring into your cup of inspiration— “Anything is possible if a person believes.”
As you drink down the contents of your cup, know that God is working behind the scenes in your favor. His mighty hand is outstretched over your situation. All that is required is your faith to activate His power.
Now, let’s pray.
God, thank You for reminding me that even on days when circumstances look grim, Your hand is still working in my favor. Rather than allowing the situation to dictate my response, I will allow Your word to strengthen my faith as I choose to believe Your report. Thank You in advance for breakthrough and manifestation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If you desire prayer, please allow me, along with my intercessory prayer team, to stand in faith with you for breakthrough. We would be so honored. We have seen God work over and over again. There is power in agreement. Click here to request prayer now.
As always, thanks for reading and until next time... may today's cup of inspiration uplift, encourage, and empower you!
