Chances are like me, you smell like hand sanitizer and you are deeply concerned about what is going on with the coronavirus. It’s where many of us are. I’m finding myself more neurotic and more of a germaphobe than ever before.  (And that’s saying a lot!)  We know it’s not in our mind because we see what’s happening around the world and around our country.  Schools are closed.  Theme parks closed.  Many of us are working from home. The shelves are scarce at the stores and it seems to be getting worse with each passing day. I have deep concerns about my loved ones and have so many questions about what is going to happen. Everything in our busy and full lives has been put on hold.  

Fear has once again become my best friend. We were always pretty tight, but now I tend to lean on fear more than ever before.   As I navigate through the changes our community and world is facing, I know this is not the time to allow fear to win.  

So, what do we do? 

There are many who are hurting physically, emotionally, and financially. This virus truly is scary. I keep thinking about Colossians 3:2.

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

While we need to take steps to be safe and stay informed, watching news 24/7 or scrolling online is only going to bring more fear and panic to our hearts and homes.  

I’m grateful for Z88.3, the ministry where I serve, especially in these times. Listening to encouraging and positive music that points us to Jesus is setting our minds on things above.  The music transforms our hearts from the fear of the world to the peace that only God can provide.  

I’m grateful for churches like mine that our trying to be a light in the darkness. Churches across the country are having to be creative to find ways to connect and it is beautiful to see. The church is not the building, it’s the people.  Let’s check in on one another.  

Setting our minds on things above. 

As we practice social distancing and isolate more, let’s use this time to move closer to our creator.  One of the first bible verses my two little girls learned was Proverbs 3:5-6.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

We know the words. But, do we believe them!? As we pray earnestly for everyone affected by the virus and for our own families, let’s put our faith into action.  Our daily, minute-by-minute trust in Him will be what replaces fear.  It will be what gets us through this season as a stronger family and community. 

Gracious Lord, we thank you for breath today. We thank you that as the world may seem to be falling apart around us, we can rest in your stability.  Your love is unconditional. Help us replace our fear today with trust in You. Help us set our minds on things above, not on earthly this.  God, we thank you for this moment in time and ask for Your protection of our families, our communities, our country, and this world. We pray that even now, You would eradicate this virus and heal those who are dealing with it. In Jesus name.

I am praying for you and how your heart may be processing. How is your family staying encouraged?