What Do We Do With Our Fear in Light of Coronavirus?

The world is going a little crazy (okay, a lot crazy) and people are scared. I mean, when you hear words like “pandemic”, “emergency”, and “quarantine”, how can you not want to rush to Costco and buy every pop tart they have on the shelf? I feel you. We open our computers, texts, emails and we can be overcome with fear. Fear that can make us start thinking selfishly in the grocery store line, fear that can make us think “this is how we all die”, and “I should have bought just one more roll.” We are so quick to open our devices again and again to check for updates, but are we as quick to open the word of God? Do you know how often the Bible addresses fearfulness? At least 365 times. That’s right. For every day of the year there is a verse that has the command “fear not.” Let’s look at just a few that would be helpful to remember in this time (and all times): “For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7. This means if we have the spirit of God within us, our life should be characterized by the power of the Lord, the love we have in Him, and a mind that knows He is in control through every part of life. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7. We are called to turn to God, talk to Him, run to Him through every unknown with a thankful heart and through that we are promised a peace so far beyond what we can imagine. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10. The Lord is our safety and is with us always. What is happening in the world today is serious. People have died and may continue to. I don’t think it’s something we should just joke about or pretend isn’t happening. Let’s all be aware, wash our hands and make smart choices. My challenge for us is to remember where our safety lies. The Lord could call us home anytime He chooses. He holds the past, present, and future in His hands and because we find rest in that we should be showing love and kindness to those who don’t have that comfort. Remember your calling, remember to pray, remember to be in the Word and, yes, remember to wash your hands.