Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. (James 4:8)

Social Distancing Does Not Apply To Our Relationship With God

During these trying times of the COVID-19 virus, one of the most effective means has become a new buzz word called “social distancing.” To lessen the spread of coronavirus, health and government officials recommend avoiding large gatherings and maintaining a distance of 6 feet from other people. This reduces the chance of contact with those knowingly or unknowingly carrying the infection. While health experts are working frantically to find a cure for the virus and medical professionals are on the frontlines battling the increasing spread of the virus worldwide, individuals can help by keeping a distance from others as this is a highly contagious virus easily spread. This is sound wisdom and everyone should heed the warnings.

The COVID-19 virus has changed the world turning many things upside down from just a few weeks ago. Stores and businesses are closed, many people have lost jobs, frantic buyers are emptying out grocery shelves and communities are reeling from the loss of revenue from what was a normal way of life. It will be months before much of the economy and basic needs of the country are restored to a level of normality. Social distancing is an effective tool to combat the manner of the transmission of the disease. Historically this is a reason for many deaths such as the 1918 influenza pandemic (Spanish flu) that killed millions. When the practice of social distancing is used, the spread of this modern-day pandemic will at least curb the impact of the disease upon others.

There is solid evidence to prove the need for social distancing among the population but during this time of keeping a distance from others, it should be a time to draw nearer to God. Times of crisis should be defined by a deeper sense of reliance upon God. Epidemics are not new to the history of man. The patriarch Job said that life is full of trouble. What Job learned in his trials is that dependence on God was absolute and whether answers come or not, the Lord God still rules in the affairs of men. James makes it clear the greatest need of a man is to draw near to the presence of the Almighty. Drawing near to God will allow God to draw near to His child. There can be no social distancing with God.

During the time of home arrest, it would be a golden opportunity to reconnect as a family. Learn to read the Bible together, talk about God and the COVID-19 virus and the changing impact on the world, teach children to trust in the power of the Lord, learn to pray as a family again, and show neighbors kindness and love as people of God. Times of trouble should not be troubling times for the child of God. One of the great characteristics of God’s people is the example of faith during hard times. What others need to see in the spirit of the Christian is how closely they are drawn to God during times of crisis. Let the light of Christ shine in the lives of those who live for a higher calling. Encourage everyone to practice social distancing and pray that everyone will draw closer to God. He is the answer. The Lord has promised He will never leave and He will never forsake His people. No virus in the world will ever change that. Lord come quickly.