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In the computer age, we have become accustomed to the quick reset, reboot or restart of the systems or phones as a 99% fix of most temporary software issues.
The first Global Reset was the flood described in Genesis chapters 6-7 of the Holy Bible. This was when God instructed Noah to build the ark because of the impending flood. Anecdotally, we refer to it as Noah’s Flood, as if somehow he was the catalyst that brought it onto mankind and the world as it was. It bears his name because he was unique in his time for being obedient to the voice of God, although the instructions did not make much sense in the thinking of the day. Can you imagine building the ark in a place and time when no such vessel had ever been built before; and the possibility of getting it to water was nonexistent? Can you imagine the ridicule and labeling as “crazy”? This is where faith trumps human wisdom.
1 Corinthians 1:25 KJV “Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” A lesson we (sadly) are still learning.”
1 Corinthians 1:27-28 KJV “But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are.”
Although these verses of scripture were given in context of the simplicity, yet greatness of the Gospel, it applies now, as it did then, to the mindset of mankind who are wise in their own eyes.
The current Global Reset has been triggered by the COVID-19 disease caused by the Novel Coronavirus and the resultant pandemic. A virus that cannot be seen with the naked eye has brought the entire globe to a virtual standstill (that’s a God-permitted event). As nations withdraw unto themselves (closed and or restricted borders, businesses, gatherings, transportation), the effect is medical, mental/emotional, social, financial, spiritual, and even political. Not all individuals cope with the resulting stressors in the same manner. Unlike the Global Reset resulting from the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack on the United States of America, which was limited primarily to air travel safety, this current reset is rebooting all facets of life. The common thread of resets is that the adjusted behaviors become the new norm. This can all be beneficial if taken in the correct spirit.
2 Timothy 1:7 KJV “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
If we focus on our Noah-like faith, and use the ‘power, love and sound mind’ found in a true relationship with Jesus Christ, the rebound will be greater than the losses. A sound mind is one of the benefits in the life of ; let us lean towards that.
So, we will have enhanced antiviral and antibacterial practices, more local food production, careful financial and estate planning, less wasted time, more personal health management, more appreciation for each other, and of course, a more vibrant prayer life and relationship with God through Jesus our Savior, Lord and Friend.
We all experience the same things
Can you imagine the realization of contracting a virus which can possibly cause your demise in a matter of days? 1 Peter 5:9 KJV “…knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.”
“This is not just a public health crisis, it is a crisis that will touch every sector,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, at a media briefing. “So every sector and every individual must be involved in the fight.”
These type of occurrences have been taking place on a regular basis. According to the booklet “A Glimpse Into the Future”, published by the Apostolic Faith Church:
[PESTILENCES: As of 2012, there were 219 virus species known to affect humans, and every year new strains of viruses are being discovered. The past few decades have witnessed the emergence of “new” infectious diseases such as Ebola, HIV/AIDS, SARS, and the Zika virus. In addition, there is the growing problem of antimicrobial-resistant strains of “old” diseases such as influenza, malaria, and tuberculosis. According to the World Health Organization, about 490,000 people contracted a drug-resistant strain of tuberculosis in 2016.]
While we react to the ever-expanding cases of COVID-19, we can also draw on the positives from similar events in human history. The overarching lesson is that it’s not the end of life, just a shift in the lifestyle. It should not be a fear factor, rather an opportunity to exercise our innovation, resilience, and faith. The fact is, history is replete with those who rose to the challenge of their day, this might just be the opportunity to put forward a Noah-like solution!
Possible results of the reset
Character building values such as patience, cooperation and self-control will have an opportunity to be re-developed and strengthened. The COVID-19 existence is longer than the passing of a summer storm, therefore the continued exercise of maturity of character is a must for extended viability. There has long been the cry of a loss of these character values in all ages of our collective societies, perhaps, just perhaps, this reset includes a pathway to restoration in this area.
Community relations including, but not limited to: respect for personal space, common courtesy, decent communication and interdependence. It seems the lessons briefly displayed after the double storms of 2017, have eroded just as quickly as they sprung up. If they sprung up, then there must have been a seed planted, though dormant at the moment. We can, and should, get to the place where our freedom of choice tends towards positive behavior instead of having to be whipped into it. It is still true that we are our brother’s keeper.
Erasure of political divides, leadership lessons, equality in all types of assistance is a great example that the nations can practice in their jurisdictions, dependencies and internationally. In times of crisis, people automatically look to those entrusted with the responsibility of the nation. Responsibility demands accountability, not only to the citizens, but to God, the only One who gives promotion. The stability of a nation rests on the twin pillars of Prayer and Godly leadership. That is why we are commissioned to make supplications, prayers, intercessions and giving of thanks for those in authority. Hopefully, a new realization of this vital factor can come to the fore, rather than bickering, finger pointing and complaining.
A healthy body is needed to enjoy the blessings of the Lord. Attention to cleanliness, proper nutrition, physical activity, and rest are all part of the package for our health. Maybe the extra time at home and refocus on personal care will revive the nucleus of the family. Hopefully, we will rebalance lifestyles to include all the pursuits for healthy living, instead of having a single minded focus on making a dollar.
Expansion of technology usage will be even more of the norm than in the past. As we become comfortable with remote communication platforms, the usage will proliferate into areas of our lives previously unconsidered. The benefits are obvious for viral and infection protection; the drawbacks are a lack of personal interactions. There are certain experiences that cannot be duplicated in our human development, especially for those who have not reached puberty.
Extraordinary situations call for extraordinary measures; the spiritual nuclear weapon is “prayer coupled with fasting”. Whenever there has been an existential threat to a people or nation, the resort of 100% effectiveness has been prayer and fasting. It worked for the people of Nineveh when Jonah pronounced the impending judgment of God because of their wickedness (see Jonah chapter 3 Holy Bible). It worked throughout scripture whenever the hand of God was the only saving measure. It still works today.
God is still in control
It must not be lost for any moment that God always has been, continues to be, and forever shall be in control. The misuse of our God-given ‘free will’ has been the Achilles Heel of mankind. This misuse has consequences which inevitably brings the cycle of sin, consequences, repentance, forgiveness and restoration. We are at the consequences stage, and the Word of God gives the picture of where we are and how to exit quickly.
2 Chronicles 7:13-14 KJV “If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
The major stumbling block to effectively exit is pride, including fear of the guilt and shame that walk with pride. The principles and promises of God remain true. We cannot expect the deliverance of God on one hand, while still holding sinful vices in the other hand. This is simply because, “God is not mocked.”
The Reverend Michael U. Anthony is the Eastern Caribbean District Superintendent of Apostolic Faith Churches, an Author and Business Owner.
