A Few Verses and a Virus

Our daughter, Hannah, lives in Italy. By all accounts Kris and I should be concerned—We are. According to much of the media we should be afraid—We are NOT.

The current circumstances related to ‘the virus’ both in the world and in our country are certainly unsettling and a cause for concern and caution, but not fear.

In only a few days things have changed dramatically according to my daughter’s reports from Italy. We are feeling the effects of change in the U.S. as well. I think it is safe to say that we do not know what ‘tomorrow’ will bring.

In addition, credible reports about the virus are a cause for concern. It really is serious.

I am writing this to encourage YOU to look at things with a mature, godly perspective. While the unknown is sure to cause uneasiness, we are not a people of fear. So, remember…

God is still God.

We live in a broken world, so it should be no surprise that we do not currently exist in a state of bliss. Suffering and disease are a part of our earthly existence. We find peace as the Psalmist describes God as the one “with whom there is no change.” (55:19)

God cares for you. 

Peter wrote these words while addressing younger Christian men, yet it can surely be applied more broadly. Peter calls for humility, while “casting your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) In addition, God has promised the Holy Spirit to those who have responded to the gospel. (Acts 2:38) That means that we have not been abandoned. God is still with us in the world.

We live in hope. 

Listen to the words of Jesus...

Do not let you hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.
—John 14:1-2

Think about it. Jesus had just told Peter that he would deny Him three times. Then Jesus told him that there was a place in God’s house prepared for him! Astonishing!

If even the worst outcome should touch the life of any one of us, we have God’s assurance of something that is literally out of this world!

We must be content. 

Using his circumstances as an example, Paul said on one occasion that he knew how to live in wealth, but he also knew how to live in poverty. That followed his statement, “I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.” Note carefully; he had learned, not ‘how to be content,’ but ‘to be’ content. How could he choose to be content…?

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. 
—Philippians 4:13

Isn’t it true that we have rock-solid confidence, not in tomorrow, but in our God!?

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

Will people see you running wildly through stores with arms flailing in wide-eyed fear over a missing product? Will fear betray you as you drone on and on with your version of ‘the sky is falling’ anxiety. Or will they be baffled by your peace, not apathy, but true peace? 

That’s when you tell them that your life rests confidently in the hands of the Creator of the universe.

Peace. 

Hope.

Mark Stinnett

March 15, 2020