A COVID-19 TESTIMONY

 

MorningStar Stories Hundreds of people at MorningStar have extraordinary experiences or receive a word from the Lord, but not all of these are shared from the stage. This is one of those words. COVID-19 Testimony At the end of July, I tested positive for COVID-19. Prior to this, I worked outside of the home during the pandemic, and in some ways was busier than ever. I didn't experience the renewal in my relationship with God that I heard so many at MorningStar testify to. Then I tested positive and was required to self-quarantine for two weeks, and then a third week after my boss asked me to be retested and wait for a negative result before I returned to work. When I received the news that the first test was positive, I wasn't entirely surprised. I was experiencing symptoms that were mild, yet not typical of those I usually had when fighting a cold or the flu. I didn't have a fever, and never did for the two weeks, but had mild headaches that would come and go, as well as slight sinus pain. Although my symptoms were mild, I still had to resist the fear that they would grow worse. Thoughts of being only in the early stage of the illness and even of dying fought for my attention, especially during my first few days in quarantine. However, as I surrendered myself to God afresh and confessed His Word, fear soon gave way to peace. He encouraged me with His presence while I was awake and through dreams while I slept. In fact, while in quarantine, there were times when I felt closer to God than I perhaps ever have. He truly manifested Himself as “a very present help in time of need” (see Psalm 46:1). I experienced a renewal in my relationship with our Heavenly Father and a renewed vision for my life. Over the years, I have received words and confirmations from the Lord that I am to teach the Bible as a writer. Although I've attempted to pursue this calling at times, I allowed the busyness of life, doubt, and increasing financial pressure to hinder me from giving it the attention and time required. I believe this began to change during my three weeks at home. While in quarantine, I was able to devote more time to prayer, Bible study, and writing than I have in many years. I just completed my second full week of being back to work. I have hesitated to share my testimony because after leaving quarantine, I soon realized that I didn’t have victory over the busyness that had kept me from writing in the past. When others once again began dictating how I should spend much of my time, my writing as well as the Bible study it requires, quickly took a back seat. However, in spite of my ongoing struggle to better manage my time, I feel that the Lord would still have me testify to His faithfulness. I have found that I often need to be reminded to humble myself before Him by casting all of my cares upon Him and not leaning on my own understanding. May my testimony remind you to do the same. Our Heavenly Father truly is “a very present help in time of need.” —John H.

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