Fear Not

One of the many impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic has been the run on stores for certain household supplies and food items. Right after hand sanitizer and toilet paper, things like bottled water, rice, eggs, and even bread seemed to be in short supply. I think some of those shortages are now being resolved as the shelves at our local stores seem more full than they were a couple of weeks ago. However, I believe the fact that some of these items were in short supply in the first place is a sign of people’s fears – as were the lines outside the stores, the price gouging seen online, and the sharp decline in the stock market over the past month. All of these are signs of people’s fears and anxieties about the future. 

To be sure, these are challenging times. With the prospect of disease, shortage, and financial uncertainty, we’re concerned about the future of our children, families, and churches. These concerns are not to be taken lightly. As God’s people, He instructs us to be wise, responsible, and faithful. However, if we read the Bible, we’ll see that it also tells us “do not fear.” Isaiah 41:10 says “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Fear and worry can overwhelm us, paralyze us, and make us doubt God’s love and presence. It is one of the enemy’s strongest weapons. Hence, the words “fear not” are repeated over 80 times in the Bible. 

One of the ways we are to deal with our fears is to pray, give our fears and concerns to the Lord, and ask for Him to provide what we need. In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught us to pray “Give us today our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11). In the Old Testament, God cared for the Israelites in the wilderness by providing manna/bread from heaven. Bread was a symbol of God’s provision for His people. During this time of uncertainty and possible shortages, as God’s people, let us not fear. Trust in the Lord, and ask Him every day to help meet your physical and spiritual needs.

God bless you,

Pastor Darren