God’s Word offers a better solution for us
The world is changing fast. Everyday there’s a new restriction or rule or recommendation in our nation due to COVID-19. And then there are the opinions — the seemingly endless supply of individuals exercising their freedom of speech to do nothing really but stir up their supporters and aggravate those who think differently.
But God’s Word has a better solution for us. The Apostle Paul was very accustomed to suffering, having been beaten, whipped, shipwrecked and imprisoned numerous times. One place he spent time in prison was the city of Philippi in modern day Macedonia. In his letter to the Philippian church, which is filled with joy and hope in Jesus, he writes this at the end of his letter:
“Do not be anxious about anything, 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 understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:6-8)
You see, circumstances didn’t define reality for Paul. He knew what suffering was far more than most. He knew hardship and loss and pain more than most. Yet he was joyful and content more than most. What was his secret? Faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus changed Paul’s life and Paul was never the same. (To read how Jesus changed his life, read through the Book of Acts in the New Testament).
When Paul wrote the church in Philippi the above words, he wasn’t telling them to simply “be positive” or “buck up and bear it.” He was telling them to reorient their thinking, no matter their situation, to the Lord Jesus. According to the Bible, when you belong to Jesus, you can truly face whatever may come without crippling anxiety or fear of the unknown.
COVID-19 is causing a lot of fear and frustration, annoyance and vitriol amongst us. But it doesn’t have to. Not because we’re such good people who will band together and beat this virus, but rather because Jesus is faithful and true and stands ready to comfort all who come to him.
Friends, I’m praying for you. I’m praying that COVID-19 will be a thing of the past very soon. But until it is, Lord willing, I’m praying that you will think of what is true and honorable, just and pure, lovely and commendable, excellent and praiseworthy. It’s good for the soul to be thankful. And in light of the good news of Jesus Christ, not far removed from Resurrection Sunday, there is much to be thankful for. I pray your hope is in Christ, now and always!
Brandon Herron is lead pastor at First Baptist Church in Sandpoint. He can be reached at brandon@sandpointfbc.org.