Let Not Your Hearts Be Troubled

Scott McFarland
03/15/20 - Sun AM Worship

Scripture Reading:  Philippians 4:4-7

Fear and the Coronavirus

If you’ve been paying any bit of attention to the news recently, the worldwide outbreak of Coronavirus is the top story.  Schools are shutting down, countries are going on lockdown, and sports leagues are canceling seasons. It’s really an interesting time in our society.

While there are serious health risks we should all be aware of and prepare for with the Coronavirus, my intention is not to get into that.  I am not a medical professional, an infectious disease expert, or a financial analyst telling you what to do. I am, however, a follower of Jesus as are many of you.  I thought I would take a few minutes to go to the Bible and bring up some (hopefully) helpful thoughts concerning the Coronavirus situation worldwide.

Be aware.  “The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.”  (Proverbs 22:3) We don’t need to minimize the serious issues this has caused, but we shouldn’t exaggerate it either.  Take precautions to the degree there are concerns. If the concern becomes elevated, so should our response.

Be sensitive.  “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” (Romans 12:15)  Even though we may not feel the problem is great enough to warrant some of the responses we are seeing, the fact remains that this disease has caused loss of life and remains a threat to elderly and those with weak immune and respiratory systems.  Our hospitals and medical system are at risk of being overrun if things get out of hand in the United States. Although it may not be a threat to you personally, it may be a threat to someone else. Be sensitive to their concerns and needs.

Be courageous.  One of the most repeated phrases in the Bible is “Do Not Fear.”  After spending several chapters comforting his disciples on the eve of his death, Jesus says in John 16:33, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace.  In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” The world has become gripped with fear. Let’s be courageous. We know there is something better than the reality we currently live in.

I believe the situation worldwide is an opportunity for Christians to display courage in the face of fear and sensitivity in the face of great concern.  Ultimately, our greatest opportunity is the chance to shine the light of hope into a dark world. If you are without Christ, you are without hope. The Coronavirus is revealing that much of our world is without hope.  Let’s show them some.

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