The Anxiety Level Is High
Day by day this Coronavirus is changing our usual way of life. Kids are no longer in school. Young families are simply surviving and trying to adjust. Older adults and others with weaker immune systems aren’t sure what they can do without being at a major risk. Businesses, schools, restaurants, and even churches are having to find alternative ways to even stay open.
Social distancing is becoming the biggest topic of conversation. Many are afraid to hug or handshake anyone. This uncharted virus makes you second guess whether you should even visit your aging parents or grandparents. Social media and television news is flooding us with fear and overloaded negativity. Sure, we need to be informed but there comes a point where it just overloads your mental capacity.
What’s more unsettling is it seems this war with the Coronavirus is just beginning it’s impact. Colleges and schools are already canceling the remainder of the school year. Restrictions of what people cannot do is rising by the day. Who knows what this means for many physically, financially, vocationally, emotionally and mentally. There’s no denying that intense stress alone can push anyone over the edge.
All this to say the clouds of anxiety are very thick throughout America right now. We can make light of it all we want. But, the closer it keeps hitting home, the more it won’t be a laughing matter. We need to pray more than ever before. We need to give God all our anxious thoughts and greatest fears. We need to recognize God’s goodness and faithfulness through it all.
While our lives may be turned upside down for a season. God is still holding us together and providing for our every need. One could argue we often need perspective wake up calls. You can bet that when things return back to normal. Our normal everyday privileges won’t be taken for granted.
God’s word is clear what it takes to find real peace. We must turn everything we can’t handle over to God. We must thank God for all He is handling. We must keep believing that God is faithful especially to those who seek to live faithful to Him. Join with me in giving God your every anxiety and all the praise due His name. It’s only then you can have lasting peace beyond all understanding.
“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.” Philippians 4:6-7
Pastor Craig Crosby 