Epidemic, pandemic, outbreak and plague are some of the words the media is using to describe the coronavirus. Waves of fear and panic have ensued wreaking havoc across the US and the world. People and economies are making decisions solely based on fear. Articles are already being published with the headlines Global markets are slumping for a fifth straight day on coronavirus fears and How the coronavirus could spark recession in America.
The news is paralyzing some people and causing others to make extreme and irrational decisions. The enemy is behind this fear tactic. He’s trying to get our focus off the promises of God and onto our own logical thoughts. He’s trying to make us believe a lie that God has lost control and we need to look out for ourselves.
Yes, it is wise to use caution when there is a public illness. Yes, it’s good to use common sense when dealing with something like this. Not taking anything away from the seriousness of coronavirus, but it’s just one of many that the media has exaggerated over the past 10 years. Bird flu, swine flu, zika, measles, etc. have all had their share of the spotlight.
Has God been shaken by any of these? Has He abandoned us? Not at all. If the recent news has worried you, that’s understandable. But don’t let fear paralyze you. Don’t let fear hold you hostage. Don’t let the fear of ‘what if’ rob you of the joy of life.
Lean into the promises of God’s word. Speak them over your life and family. Illness and disease still bow down to Jesus.
Jesus traveled throughout the region of Galilee, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. Matthew 4:23 NLT
“Lord, help!” they cried in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He sent out his word and healed them, snatching them from the door of death. Psalm 107:19-20 NLT