When I turn on the news, radio, or take a glance at social media, it is easy to feel a sense of anxiety due to the viruses that are surrounding us. The information regarding these can be alarming to hear. Flights are being cancelled, families are changing their travel plans, colleges are offering online courses instead of on campus classes, stores are running low on water and other basic supplies, and school events and activities are being cancelled due to uncertainty and fear.

While it is never a bad idea to use caution, practice good hygiene, and take the necessary preventative measures, we should never let our fear or anxiety outweigh our trust in an Almighty God. Despite the changing world around us, we can fully trust that our God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. His word says:

“God is our refuge and strength,

an ever-present help in trouble.

Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way

And the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,

Though its waters roar and foam

And the mountains quake with their surging.

The Lord Almighty is with us;

The God of Jacob is our fortress.

He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth.’

The Lord Almighty is with us;
The God of Jacob is our fortress.”²

Let’s choose to focus our thoughts on God and trust Him, knowing that He will give us peace amid uncertainty.

Suggested prayer: “Dear God, thank you for being our refuge and strength. So much is happening in the world around us, and it can sometimes cause panic and stress. Allow me to trust you above my feelings. You are with us and will never leave us, therefore we will not fear. We praise you and choose to fix our thoughts on you. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

1.      Isaiah 26:3 (NLT).

2.      Psalm 46:1-3, 7, 10-11 (NIV).