I know there is so much going on out there. Opinions are divided yet there is no shortage of advice on COVID-19. Everyone is speaking. I took a step back to listen to what God might have to say in the matter. A favourite scripture came to mind.  “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” 2 Timothy 1:7 

In Christ, there is no fear. Why you might ask. Think of the epidemic of serpents in wilderness, the plagues in Egypt, or the shepherd’s valley of death. There is fear everywhere else but not where God is welcomed. God gives us calm even in surreal circumstances. If Jesus were physically with us today He would say as He did many times: “Do not be afraid”. Jesus being eternal is right in the middle of it with us as the disciples realised in the middle of a raging storm. There are three things we can do though.

First, we need to tap into the power that the world does not have, the power that God’s spirit gives us. This is a promise that only those who have trusted in Jesus for salvation have. We are empowered to be bold, courageous, and steadfast in that God is able. To be strong and courageous is a command, especially to leaders (Joshua 1:9).

Secondly, times like this present an opportunity to love people unconditionally. Show kindness, lead the world in love, people are vulnerable and respond to acts of love in times like this. There is no better time to think of others more than ourselves. Times like this reveal character, it brings the best in us and unfortunately, the worst in us. Love and cherish what we have and not what we don’t have.

Thirdly, if we never had self-discipline, this is a good time to start. Heed sound advice but start with God’s word first, seek His face and His counsel for times like this. Practice hygiene, practice what the scripture has taught us in regards to praying for leaders, following the law of the land, loving our neighbour and doing things that are sensible, of common sense and of common good. Some translations use the phrase  “sound mind” in the place of “self-discipline”. God’s spirit will give us the mental health we need at this time. He has the resources to help us overcome worry, anxiety and stress. Surrendering our lives to Him allows His spirit to control our thinking and our mind, but only if we allow Him.

Finally, Nahum 1:7 says “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him”.  Will you trust Him to care for you? Will you go to Him as your refuge?  The Lord is good. He is sufficient for us at all times, even in times of trouble.

George Mathew