COVID-19. Coronavirus. These words have sparked fear into American culture and around the world. Toilet paper has been scarce, supplies have been more scarce, and some businesses are changing their models. People are worried about paying bills, children out of school, and how to get back to normal life.
Yet, I believe that even though we face some serious challenges, we must recognize that this is not a time for fear but for faith.
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. – Psalms 91:1-6
Notice carefully those two expressions in God’s word: “In him will I trust,” and, “Thou shalt not be afraid.”
This is not a time for fear but for faith.
Is it fearful to take precautions? Certainly not. It is wise to practice good hygiene, avoid unnecessary spreading of germs, and giving caution to social events. However, we need more than just good precautions. We must trust in the Lord.
This is not a time for fear but for faith.
Here are a few ways to strengthen and live your faith in these trying times.
1. Rejoice in Your Salvation
We must examine ourselves. Have I placed my faith in the Lord Jesus Christ? Have I repented of my sin and believed that the Son of God died upon the cross, was buried, and rose again? The Bible says, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
As a believer, no matter what may happen in this world, I have ever right to lift my hands and REJOICE that I belong to Jesus! Dear one who has looked to the crucified Savior, lift your hands and heart and be glad today that you are a son or daughter of the King of kings!
2. Fill Your Heart with Scripture
The word of God gives hope! Do not let your only thoughts be the news media. Let your heart rest in the word of God! What patience and comfort the Scriptures provide! Listen to the words of Scripture…
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. – Matthew 11:28
3. Spend Time with God in Prayer
Psalm 91 speaks of dwelling in the secret place of the most High. Do you have a secret place where you turn off the phones, TV, distractions, and even other people? Would you run to God today and have a private conversation with Him where you can be real, unmasked, open, and totally honest? This is having faith in God.
4. Be Compassionate Toward Others
There are many opinions about COVID-19. Some people feel it is not important and blown out of proportion. Others feel it could be very devastating. Still, other people are somewhere in-between those first two opinions.
Regardless of how I may feel personally, I know that this time in our country is a time for compassion. It is the moment when we should offer to assist the elderly or the parent of the young child. Now is the time to share with others. This is the occasion to offer a word of encouragement and to pray with a fearful soul.
Do not belittle the fears of others. Be kind in your words and works.
Be compassionate. The Lord Jesus said to love our neighbors as ourselves.
5. Know that God Cares for Your Needs
Who knows what tomorrow shall bring? Jobs may be lost. Difficult days could be at hand. Yet, our God has never changed. He said that He knows the fowls of the air and that He feeds them. He also promised that people for whom He gave His Son’s life are worth far more to Him than the birds of the air.
God knows your needs, but, more than knowing of your needs, He cares for them. He never promised to supply all we want, but He did promise to supply our needs. We must trust Him.
This is not a time for fear. This is a time for faith.
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