NUMBERS NUMBNESS

Posted on February 12, 2021 by Catey Stover in Freedom Fighters

Reading the newspaper today, I see that there are now more than 3 million cases of the coronavirus in the U.S. If I were to be totally truthful, that is just a number to me. I’ll tell you when it is more than a number—when it takes one of my close friends or relatives. Then it becomes personal.

Can you relate to that?

Nearly 150,000 people die every day around the world. Obviously, statistics change daily, but as I write this, there are more than 40,000 new COVID-19 cases per day in the U.S., the highest rate of any country in the world. There have been 5.6M cases and 174K deaths. On the world scene, there have been 22.6M cases and 752K deaths. But those are just numbers—until it hits one of my close friends or relatives.

Does it affect you that way, too?

II Peter 3:9 says, “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” “Anyone” and “everyone” are rather inclusive and refer to individuals. One person.

If 150,000 people die around the world every day, how many die without Christ? What difference does it make to me, really? Unless death takes an unsaved loved one or close friend, it is just a number.

Am I different from you?

But God is different. He cares.

He left us with the task/responsibility/privilege of spreading the good news of His love and salvation. Do we? Do we care? Are we numb to the numbers?

Romans 10:15 says: “And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’”

We have been sent, beginning at home. (Acts 1:8)

 

Written By Neil Fichthorn: Rev. Neil Fichthorn is a seasoned conference and camping servant having served at Gull Lake Bible Conference, Sandy Cove Ministries as President, and an interim Executive Director at Pinebrook Bible Conference. He also served in church music for decades as a choir director and arranger. He has been Bill Welte’s mentor and friend for over 45 years.


Think About This: “No man should desire to be happy who is not at the same time holy. He should spend his efforts in seeking to know and do the will of God, leaving to Christ the matter of how happy he should be.” – A.W. Tozer

The Daily Bible Reading: Acts 7 | You can download our 2021 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here. 

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. –John 1:16-17

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