This Severe Significant Setback (instead of Social Security System) is something that you and I do not want to have in life. Setback is a word that most of us don’t like. There is a pool of underlying negative connotations that comes with this word. It means “not moving forward”, “not gaining”, “not advancing”, or “not even keeping the status quo.”
A setback means a reversal, a loss of momentum, or sometimes, it means going back to zero.
The good news is that everyone has experienced a setback, at least once in a lifetime. As far as I can remember, I have not known any person who hasn’t experienced any setback in life. Even a king, who is known to be a man after God’s own heart, did experience a setback. Out of pride, King David counted on his armed forces. Somehow, he had an inclination of relying on his own strength rather than trusting in God.
The setback was outlined to King David by Prophet Gad for the sin he committed:
“So Gad came to David and told him; and he said to him, ‘Shall seven years of famine come to you in your land? Or shall you flee three months before your enemies, while they pursue you? Or shall there be three days’ plague in your land? Now consider and see what answer I should take back to Him who sent me.’ ” (2 Samuel 24:13 NKJV)
These are all “severe significant setbacks.” And if you were in David’s shoes, what would be your choice?
“And David said to Gad, “I am in great distress. Please let us fall into the hand of the LORD, for His mercies are great; but do not let me fall into the hand of man.”
(2 Samuel 24:14 NKJV)
Take note: David chose the plague. He chose the epidemic! Why?
“So the LORD sent a plague upon Israel from the morning till the appointed time. From Dan to Beersheba seventy thousand men of the people died. And when the angel stretched out His hand over Jerusalem to destroy it, the LORD relented from the destruction, and said to the angel who was destroying the people, “It is enough; now restrain your hand.” And the angel of the LORD was by the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite.” (2 Samuel 24:15-16 NKJV)
David knew God so well that…
1. He wanted to be in God’s “heavy” hands rather than in someone else’s.
2. He knew God is a merciful God.
3. He knew somehow God would relent.
Greater casualties would be incurred if David didn’t choose wisely. In the light of the pandemic that is being experienced worldwide, I believe that the good Lord has allowed this to happen. Being a merciful God, He will soon relent.
In 2 Samuel 24:16 NKJV says:
“…and said to the angel who was destroying the people, “It is enough; now restrain your hand.”
Let us join in prayers that may God relent soon. Let us not lose heart trusting in the Lord.
Keeping in touch,
Ptr. Anthony Velasco
