Are you afraid? Are you fearful? Is it the fear of the unknown? Is it the fear of a mortal existence and the possibility of it ending? Are you in panic mode? Has fear been feeding fear within you?
We all have fears. We see others who have fears. Inherently, there is nothing wrong with fear. It’s a natural emotion when we are faced with a dangerous situation. Certainly, we should experience fear in a life-threatening situation. However, when fear becomes overwhelming, to the point of panic, it is unhealthy and unholy.
God is holy. He is also perfect. His holiness is part of His perfection. Jesus tells us, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48). If we are to be perfect, we also must be holy. Jesus also told us not to be afraid, but to believe in him (Mark 5:36).
As Christians, we are called to help others. This can be done in many ways. We may be doctors or nurses, caring for the sick. We may pray for those who are sick, their families, and the medical personnel caring for them. We may be the person who is a voice of calm in the chaos. We may be the person who only purchases what is needed for a couple of weeks rather than hoarding supplies.
Most certainly, we are the person who does not allow fear to control us, to force us into a panic. We trust God and know that He is in control. We know that we will be with Him for eternity when our time on this earth is done and we find comfort in that knowledge.
The belief of being with God forever is what drove the Christians of the 16th century to care for those suffering from the bubonic plague, the black death. They stayed with those who were sick and cared for them. They kept calm, did the work God called them to do, and did it all in the comfort of knowing they were guaranteed heaven.
During this time of uncertainty, chaos, fake news that incites panic, and hoarding; we are called to remain calm and not panic. That doesn’t mean we should be foolish. We should be cautious, yet also serve others as we are able. We should only purchase the supplies we need for a couple weeks. We should pray for those who are sick and those who are caring for them. All while trusting God to carry us through it and trusting that when we leave this life, we will be with Him for eternity.
I pray we all trust God. I pray we all remain calm. I pray we all lean on the strength that God will provide. I pray that we find courage in a time of fear. Trust God. Do not fear. Know that God is in control. Know that God is always with you. Serve others in love. God loves you.
Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Marty Pressey 