Corona Virus:  How then shall we stand? 

​Below is information for a suggested stance as we all endeavor to understand and contend for our health and livelihoods in the Corona Virus epidemic.  These are some overriding themes we see emerging from the plethora of information floating out there and through the evolving discussions.  We are sharing them with you in hopes they may help us stand with clarity in the face of this headwind.  
  1.  We stand with compassion towards those families who are suffering from the virus or who have lost family members as a result. 
  2. We stand to pray for those in authority to make decisions for handling the outbreaks with wisdom and sound minds.
  3. We respect the fact that the Covid-19’s (Corona virus) infectivity rate is high.  That fact makes the virus a risk for spread as we are seeing in the nations. 
  4. We are in the early stages of understanding the epidemiology and virology of Covid-19 and cannot assume full knowledge by reading a few articles now.  
  5. There is no need to "Panic" even the WHO has labeled this a "Pandemic," it is far from the reach of prior pandemics.  There is a demonic force of fear and deception driving the news regarding this virus.  We recommend a “sound” check on our words so they do not add to these enemy assignments and rob us of wisdom and peace.   
  6. We understand much of what the media presents is expressed to heighten awareness, but also can push people into fear.  Sensationalism has no place in understanding and containing the spread of the virus.  
  7. We urge sharing of the stories of miracles happening through this virus rather than hitting on stories of terror that are not representative of what is actually happening.  
  8. We urge all to educate ourselves in the character and nature of the virus as a needed step in containment and preparation.
Prayer Points 
  1. Pray that the body of Christ be "Strong and of good courage," and not fall into the trap of fear.  The enemy is driving a global war, trying to intimidate and divide.  We, on the other hand, stand to unite and pray, believing for the harvest and a release of God's healing power.  God showed up as Jehovah Rapha (the God who heals) right after the Israelites are delivered from a major "Fear" assault.  “If you diligently heed the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the Lord who heals you.”  Ex 15:26.  Pray for a release of healing through the Holy Spirit.  ​We are in faith that this outbreak represents a gateway to a release of healing.  Pray for healing every time the news strikes regarding the viral spread.  Ps 103:1-5, Mt 8:17; James 5:15; Mark 16:17
  2. We believe this outbreak is a catalyst to unite the church.  Pray for the Body of Christ to unify through this challenge.  John 17:21-24
  3. There is war in the heavenlies at a global level over this epidemic (see # 5 above).  Pray for a life-changing catalytic outpouring of the spirit of grace and intercession (Zech 12:10) and for other nations to call for a day of prayer.  Amos 9:11; Acts 2:1, 15:16; Mark 11:17 
  4. The outbreak is a gateway to the harvest and it is an hour for the Church to shine.  Pray for the release of the harvest and the Church to provide the hope for those in despair.   Is. 60:1-3; 2 Cor 9:10 
  5. We pray for wisdom, discernment, and effective strategy for all those in authority from hospitals/healthcare, to governments in containing the spread of the virus.  2 Tim 2:1-2;  Ps 111:10; Pro 3:13, James 1:5
  6. We pray for wisdom, discernment, sound mind for all in adjusting travel and plans as a result of the spread of the virus.  2 Tim 1:7, Phil 1:9; James 3:17
  7. Pray protection, renewed hope, creative strategies for outreach and faith for all those in high risk areas. Ps 91; Malachi 4:2-3;  Ps 121:7-8, Rom 15:13
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Recommended references from medical community: 
 "Covid-19: Navigating the Uncharted," New England Journal of Medicine, Feb 28, 2020.   
Defining the Epidemiology of Covid-19--Studies needed.  New England Journal of Medicine, Feb 19, 2020
 

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"Then I said to the nobles, the rulers, and the rest of the people, 'The work is great and extensive, and we are separated far from one another on the wall.  Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there.  Our God will fight for us.'”  
Nehemiah 4:19-20