Fear! The uncertainty of the unknown is causing hysteria across our nation in response to the coronavirus. We are canceling annual sporting events that involve millions of dollars because of fear related to public safety. The stock market is crashing. Schools are being dismissed. Toilet paper and cleaning supplies are in high demand.
What is a Christian to do when the world is in such a panic?
- Do not fear! We are tempted to join the panic. Fear is a basic survival instinct within all of us. Fear drives our behaviors. It paralyzes us from action and tells us lies. Fear will cause us to act irrationally and keep us from trusting God. the Bible says “fear not” in some form some 366 times. Christians must hear the words of Isaiah as the pandemic spreads across our nation, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Is. 41:10). Jesus rebuked his disciples for fearing (Mat. 8:23-27). Peter sunk when walking on the water when he became afraid (Mat. 14:30). We must not give into fear, but stand strong in faith.
- Be reasonable and kind! Paul admonished us to “Let your reasonableness be known to everyone” (Phil. 4:5). When the world panics, Christians respond with reason, calm, and fortitude. We should practice recommended hygiene practices, like washing our hands. The golden rule demands Christians to be thoughtful, kind, and sensitive in our actions regarding sickness. We should not go to restricted places when asked being respectful of others. If feeling sick ourselves, we should stay in and consider the good of others. We ought to be appreciative of governing authorities who are trying to look out for the good of society. Our efforts should be to assist them and pray for them rather than criticizing (Romans 13).
- Understand the fragility of man. David said while on the run from Saul, “there is but a step between me and death” (1 Sam. 20:3). The coronavirus is humbling our nation. In a nation sport-obsessed and financially-focused a little microscopic virus has thrown a major disruption into our world! We are a nation who reveres our medical system and believes we have a long life promised. We forget the very fragile nature of human life. Our life is but a “mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes” (James 4:13). We are a heartbeat from eternity. Let us follow our Lord’s advice and be ready (Mat. 25)!
- Remind yourself of where your confidence must be. The coronavirus is a test of America. It is a test of our character and strength. It is a test of our faith as Christians (1 Peter 1:6-7). We put our confidence in health, wealth, and pleasure; all of which have been threatened by this virus. Our confidence must be in the Rock! Our trust must be in God (Ps 91). We should take counsel from saints of ages past who dealt with plagues and disease.* They kept their faith, ministered to the sick and hurting, and clung to God in worship. In fact, let us as Christians pray that people will come to Christ during this time realizing He is the only sure foundation and rock to build your life upon!
So while the world panics Christians remain strong in faith and resolute in their witness for Christ in the midst of chaos.
*See this article – http://johnmarkhicks.com/2011/02/23/david-lipscomb-on-the-cholera-epidemic-in-nashville-june-1873/
