We find ourselves in unprecedented times. Unlike most crisis that we have experienced in the past, this crisis forces us to physically pull apart from each other and isolate ourselves. As we see governments in developed countries struggle to manage the pandemic not withstanding their sophisticated health systems, we pray that God will spare us the high and severe burden of the pandemic.
What has been your reaction to the pandemic and the resulting disruption to life? Are you experiencing fear, anger, anxiety or feelings of helplessness? Do not be surprised if you experience some of these negative feelings as you concede that you are not in control of what is happening with the pandemic.
What is your biggest concern?
For majority of people, besides health concerns, financial anxieties are weighing heavily on them. Not knowing how long this crisis will last and whether they will have an income in the short run, let alone whether they will still have their jobs or businesses when the crisis is over. We have witnessed investors all over the world panic leading to stock markets crashes. Our economy was already struggling and this pandemic would probably not have come at a worse time. No wonder many people are anxious about how their financial lives will be post pandemic.
What has been your reaction to the situation?
Let me share my reaction. After confirmation of the first case in the country, the reality of the matter took a new meaning. I found the situation confounding and I realized that I must choose to search for answers in the scriptures because they are authoritative and relevant in all circumstances. Let me share five scriptures that help me to be calm and hopeful.
- James 3:17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
- James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you
- Psalms 24:1 The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it
- Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
- 1 Timothy 6:8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.
My prayer is that you will choose to process this difficult situation in God because only He knows the end from the beginning.
In my next article I will address three economic principles that perfectly illustrated through this crisis.