Today we find ourselves in the midst of a COVID-19 (coronavirus disease) pandemic, which has affected our economy, our society, disrupting our way of life. We find ourselves listening to scientists, health professionals, and leaders who do not appear to all agree on the cause, solution, or the future. Media (both mainstream and social) share their thoughts of who is wise and who is foolish, with a focus which seems slanted towards fear rather (or more so) than hope.
Fear of catching (or someone we know catching) the disease, or possibly dying from it. Fear of losing our job or having to go weeks without pay. Fear of not having enough supplies (i.e. bread, toilet paper, disinfectant spray/wipes, etc.). Fear of the unknown. Maybe even the fear of whether this is just all a part of nature's natural course (which may return year after year) or a judgment of God upon unrepentant (sinful) humankind.
Paul tells us in Romans 8:15:
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
In this reference, Paul is telling us that we should be willing to suffer with Christ [17] and that the sufferings of this present life will not compare to the future glory of all who put their trust in him. [18] However, if we are not to fear being called upon to suffer for Christ, why then should we fear if we must suffer (however we view our present suffering) during this pandemic? Is not the same God who watches over the persecuted for Christ the same God who promises to watch over his children daily? Jesus taught that we should be anxious for nothing, for our heavenly father knows our needs. [Matthew 6] However, he did say, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness." And/then...
We are to pray for and obey our leaders:
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. [1 Timothy 2:1-2]
We should pray for wisdom:
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. [James 1:5]
We must trust in the LORD God and depart (repent of) evil:
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. [Proverbs 3:5-7]
Do not be brought into the bondage of fear, but rather:
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. [Philippians 4:6-7]
Through Christ:
God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. [2 Tim. 1:7]
We are to comfort one another and edify one another, as the church, the body of Christ.
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