The Coronavirus is creating a great deal of fear and disruption throughout the world. People are not shaking hands because of the virus (that may the stated reason, but I wonder if the underlying fear is knowing that there’s a shortage toilet paper). What should be our response as Christians as we face this global pandemic?

Let’s see how King David responded when he faced a life and death situation. David assessed the situation and acknowledged his fear:

When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. (Psalm 56:4)

David did not deny his emotions, he realized the dangers he faced. There may be situations that if you’re not afraid, then you don’t truly understand the situation. We however, don’t need to be enslaved to our fears. Let’s examine David’s strategy for overcoming a threatening crisis.

David started with prayer. What is your default response when you’re facing a difficult situation? Are you more focused on the problem or on God who can solve the problem? The Apostle Paul gave this helpful prescription to the church at Phillipi:

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

You may be thinking, “How can I not be anxious?” The news indicates that many people may die, the stock market is on a roller coaster, and my job is in jeopardy. Paul declared that you can have a peace that surpasses all comprehension. We have not seen the worst of this virus, but it shall pass. Every year we’re cautioned to get our vaccine for influenza. We have confidently faced numerous illnesses in the past – the Hong Kong flu, the Swine flu, SARS, and the yearly flu epidemic. Hopefully our proactive stance can minimize the loss of life, but we do not need to be consumed by fear.

Prayer takes our focus off the problem and puts it on God. Prayer enables us to gain God’s perspective. When fear becomes our dominant emotion, then we start acting and thinking irrationally. Most of you who are reading this blog will survive the coronavirus. Paul encouraged his protege in the faith, Timothy, with these words:

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)

David also found confidence and perspective in God’s word:

In God, whose word I praise, in God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid. What can mere man do to me? (Psalm 56:4)

David declared that he would not give in to his fears. This disciples of Jesus were fearful of His forthcoming departure, but Jesus prepared them for the realities they would face:

These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)

We don’t like tribulation, but this world is filled with difficulties and challenges. Notice that Jesus said that if we are in Him that we may have peace. Our response therefore is to take courage. This can be an opportunity for us as Christ followers to show the love and mercy of Jesus to those in need. How can we assist those who are struggling because of the disruption caused by the coronavirus?

Stay close to God so that you can show His light to those who may be in the darkness. This is an opportunity for your faith to shine forth – anyone can hold the helm when the sea is calm, but the true test of your faith is when times are difficult. Our faith is revealed in times of adversity. What can you do for others?

During this time of fear and uncertainty, we must demonstrate an attitude of thanksgiving. Gratitude is an antidote to fear. As you focus on the small graces of your life, then you will stay confident in this time of uncertainty.

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

Follow me on twitter:  rickhiggins5