Amid the massive upheaval that the Coronavirus is causing, it can be difficult not to fall prey to the fear that is so quickly engulfing the world. But I believe this is a key time for the people of God to walk in the powerful reality of the love and peace that only God can give. While borders, schools, and public events are closing, unique doors of opportunity are swinging open for believers to share God’s hope.
Our challenge is to look with heaven’s eyes at this situation—eyes of faith. God is not limited by our circumstances. What is He doing in this and how can we co-labor with Him? I know of a ministry team that is currently on a spring break outreach in New York City. They embarked on the trip long before New York City reached a state of emergency and found themselves in unsettled surroundings. Although some would say the timing of their trip is unfortunate, they have had incredible opportunities to minister the peace of Christ in the midst of widespread panic within the city.
To walk in the faith and power God gives us, we must “put on the full armor of God so that we can stand our ground.” (Ephesians 6:10-18)
This isn’t being “super-spiritual.” We still acknowledge the facts. Coronavirus is a real thing. It has the power to spread rapidly. There are healthy choices we can make to try to keep ourselves free from sickness.
But we do not have to fear. We have the power of God’s Word, the sword of the Spirit, to fight against this.
2 Timothy 1:7 is a Scripture that gives us words to live by during this time:
“God hasn’t given us a spirit of fear”
When we feel ourselves slipping down the rabbit hole of what ifs that the daily news delivers, we can remind ourselves that this panic isn’t from God. Fight back by focusing on the truth of God’s peace amid difficult circumstances.
“But of power”
God’s Word has power. Declare it. Read passages of Scripture over your home, speak them out as you walk in your neighborhood and workplace. Pray them over your country and the world.
“And of love”
How is God inviting you to display and share His love? Be ready to encourage, bless others, and share God’s love to those He places in your path.
“And a sound mind”
Look at the facts, rightly assess the threat, and make healthy choices. Walk in the wisdom that God brings.
As we choose to trust in God, this can be a “David and Goliath” moment for believers. While the enemy tries to loom large and render the world powerless by instilling fear and panic, we have the opportunity to experience the bigness of our God as we trust in Him and declare His truth. As Hebrews 10:25 says, “But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved.” In the days ahead, let’s be carriers of the contagious peace and love that only Christ can bring! Amazing opportunities await us!
