by Dan Russell
SOUTHGATE, MI – To help strengthen the pastors and church families of our Convention as we face this coronavirus crisis, here are some encouraging reminders on how to keep your trust in God during this pandemic.
Choose Faith Over Fear
Let’s remember to let faith rule our hearts and not fear. I absolutely believe we should take this pandemic seriously, use precaution and exercise wisdom. At the same time, we can do so while keeping our faith in God.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
(2 Timothy 2:1-7)
Choose Wisdom Over Worry
While we can still maintain our faith because of our unchanging God, it is still important to exercise wisdom instead of becoming paralyzed by worry. If there is an action you can do to protect yourself, do it. Use wisdom and listen to sound advice.
“So, incline your ear to wisdom and apply your heart to understanding.”
(Proverbs 2:2)
Choose Prayer Over Panic
Prayer is the exact prescription the Bible gives us to cure panic. It’s easy to watch the news and overthink all the possible negative outcomes that can take place. All that will do is rob us of the peace God promises us for today. Prayer is powerful and effective and if we are too busy panicking instead of praying, we forfeit our greatest strength.
“Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus.”
(Philippians 4:6-7)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Dan Russell is the Executive Pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Southgate, Michigan, a Church Strengthener for the Baptist State Convention of Michigan, and an adjunct professor in the Christian Ministry Department of Spring Arbor University at two campuses in southeastern Michigan. He has 36 years of pastoral experience, including lead pastorates in Missouri, Kansas, and Michigan. He and his wife, JoLinda, live in Brownstown, Michigan, and have three adult children, along with seven grandchildren.