Written by Deanne L.
As I thought about what to write, it struck me that for the last several days the world has been bombarded with fear due to something known as COVID-19. You cannot avoid it - everywhere you look, your email, the news, Facebook and even communications at work. In all my years, I never expected to see this worldwide reaction to a virus. Should I be afraid? Should I panic? Should I rush to buy up essential supplies, assuming they can be found? Should I isolate in my home? These are the same questions many are asking themselves.
The Word of God has several scriptures which give me answers and comfort.
Psalms 56:3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
Psalms 34:4 I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.
Isaiah 41:10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
Joshua 1:9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord they God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
While as a human, I ask the questions I mentioned earlier; as a child of God, I rely on the assurance in His Word and put my trust in Him, rather than jumping on the bandwagon of fear. By trusting in Him and seeking Him, he delivers me from all, not some, but all my fears. He tells me to fear not nor be dismayed because he will give me strength. I have His righteousness - what peace that gives me. He asks, has He not commanded me? He tells me to be strong, courageous and to not be afraid because He is with me. So, no, I should not panic because wherever I go, God is there.
I am going to trust the Lord and not panic or react. I want my reaction to all this to be that of a strong child of God. I want my witness to be that I serve an awesome God and have faith that His will always prevails. I will not act reckless, but I will also not fear.
The last verse I want to leave you with is well known,
Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.