“My heart goes out to those affected by this horrible virus. Here in California alone, at least 33 people have tested positive as more than 8,400 other cases are being monitored. Since the first reports from the epicenter of the outbreak in China, my heart is burdened for the sick and suffering, as well as for those grieving at the loss of their loved ones. Throughout our 46 years of ministry, we have been involved with a number of efforts to provide relief and spiritual assistance in any way possible, and as the virus spreads, it’s imperative that we pray in agreement and work together as never before that God will bring healing and health to a hurting, fearful world.”

A Light of Hope

Despite worrisome reports, I’m guardedly optimistic about recent potential breakthroughs. The World Health Organization has more than 20 COVID-19 vaccines in development around the globe.

Some of the most promising work comes from Israel and the United States, as they’re making progress in their development of both vaccines and therapeutics.

As has happened so often in recent years with innovative technologies—in computers, cellphones, agriculture, weaponry, and medicine—one of the most promising breakthroughs with both coronavirus vaccines and therapeutics emerges from Israel! We must pray that God will continue to provide insight for new medication discoveries as well spiritual unity among believers.

Above all, we know that ‘He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world’ (1 John 4:4). We also realize that the enemy of our soul is on a rampage, coming to steal, kill, and destroy, yet our Lord Jesus has come to give us life more abundantly (John 10:10).

Signs of the Times

And as fears about the virus continue sending shockwaves around the world, I’m looking to even more far-reaching events on the horizon.

One of the signs of our times, is that everywhere we look today people are fearful of the future. Growing uncertainty, especially in light of the spread of the coronavirus, should cause us to understand that we must be aware of the times and seasons.

As I consider world events and look at what is happening in the Holy Land, we must be aware of these perilous times as Bible prophecy rapidly unfolds before our eyes. We are living in historic times, foretold by the prophets of old, and one of the remaining signs of Christ’s coming is that the greatest revival in world history is soon approaching.

I don’t believe in a ‘doom and gloom’ Gospel. We can read the end of the Book and know that victory is coming.

Yes, the Bible speaks of ‘gross darkness’ during the last days, darkness so thick that it is almost tangible. Yet while gross darkness covers the earth, God’s divine presence and glory will increase and totally saturate, sanctify, and invade the life of believers. Where sin, darkness, and illnesses abound, God grace abounds even more (Romans 5:20).”

My Call to Prayer

I’m asking my partners all over the world to join me in prayer for the eradication of coronavirus disease. And I encourage all believers to be strong in the love of Christ as we minister to those around us who are hurting and fearful.

Let us arise, shine, and be a beacon of the Lord’s light and hope in a dark and often hopeless world!”