By Nancy Virden (c)2020

“Don’t call everything a conspiracy, like they do, and don’t live in dread of what frightens them.” Over 2700 years later, this is only one example of the Bible’s relevancy today. It speaks to us because God never changes, and neither does human nature.

This week, the first three positive cases popped up in Ohio. All three are in my county. Stores are running out of supplies. While I take practical preventative measures, I am not afraid or hoarding what others may need.

There’s a difference between practical caution and worry and dread. Answer these if you can: 

• Has worry ever improved anything in your life or in the life of a worrier you know?
• Has it changed what eventually happens?
• Has worry ever protected you? 

 COVID-19

Whatever the coronavirus does in my region, even if I catch it, awareness of all the desperations God has walked with me throughout my life assures me he is trustworthy. Why worry over a virus I cannot change?

COVID-19, the disease that develops from the coronavirus, attracts curiosity and fear. Death tallies on television and the internet constantly remind us of the potential danger. 

Sure, no one wants to flirt with potential sickness. Today’s global panic seems more related to a fear of death than fear of say, missing work. 

No need to “dread what frightens them”

It is helpful on tough days to remember this is not all there is.

Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. (Romans 8:18).

These current challenges are not “nothing.” They matter and each of us matters. Only imagine how great what awaits us must be if it will make today’s hurts seem like nothing!

Ancient Biblical prophets knew their home was not earth. They looked forward to a heavenly place and suffered persecution for it. Modern prophets and preachers are also thus treated in some countries. When God sent his Son to live here for a time, Jesus knew he was from heaven and that he would return. He was killed for saying so although his torturous death was one he not only accepted but chose for our sake.

It was when Jesus rose to life again, an event we will soon celebrate on Easter, that death was defeated once and for all! There is no necessary fear of dying for people who believe on him as their Savior from sin.

One day, my biological heart will stop. Like most everyone, I do not know how or when. Nothing catastrophic will be the end of me – the eternal me – my unique soul. I will live on because Jesus made a way for believers to live with him forever. 

No one knows for sure about tomorrow

“Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil” is a phrase you may have heard. It is part of Psalm 23, The Shepherd’s Psalm. It also reads, “You lead me beside still waters… you restore my soul.”

You and I do not need to think about scary maybes.  Focus on who actually is in charge. If you are one of his own, he will lead you to calm and rest. 

Nothing is worth useless worry!

Today’s Helpful Word  

Isaiah 8:11-14a
The Lord has given me a strong warning not to think like everyone else does. He said, “Don’t call everything a conspiracy, like they do, and don’t live in dread of what frightens them. Make the Lord of Heaven’s Armies holy in your life. He is the one you should fear. He is the one who should make you tremble. He will keep you safe.”

 

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. 

*** COMMENTS ALWAYS WELCOME

NOTE: I am not a doctor or mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.
If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.
If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

*Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright (c) 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.., Carlo Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.