by Pam Nettles, LCMHC
With so much attention being placed on the new strain of Coronavirus (COVID-19) many people are becoming anxious, fearful, feel powerless and some are even panicking. Certainly with the availability of world wide media at our fingertips we are being constantly bombarded with worst case scenarios. Even in our local area (with no immediate threat) medical supplies, hand sanitizer, bottled water and canned goods are disappearing from store shelves. While it is important to be informed about this virus and know the facts, it is also equally important to have a balanced approach to the personal implications of this latest super virus.
The current Coronavirus (COVID-19) is the latest strain from the Coronaviruses (CoV) family, which have been around for many years. In fact, many Lysol cans list Coronaviruses as one of the germs that Lysol kills. While COVID-19 is highly contagious, the risk of death is very low, currently being reported at about 3%. Of the deaths reported, the people most at risk are those with an already compromised immune system, heart/respiratory issues, very young or elderly. Most people infected with the virus will experience symptoms like a common cold. Coronavirus is spread through respiratory droplets that are inhaled or left on surfaces that are touched by an infected person. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) recommends the following to reduce risk/spread of infection: disinfect touched objects and surfaces, wash hands vigorously with warm soapy water, use hand sanitizer, stay home if you are sick, refrain from touching your face, covering your coughs and sneezes, and wearing a mask if you are symptomatic. Additionally, seeking prompt medical attention if needed.
Christians need not be fearful of this latest potential health risk. Philippians 4:6-7 (New International Version) states, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God”. Jesus is stronger than COVID-19 and this current epidemic hasn’t taken Him by surprise. Since the original sin by Adam and Eve our world will have trials. But scripture also tells us that our trials produce perseverance, character, and hope (Romans 5:4). Most importantly scripture tells that Christ has overcome the world, therefore, in Him we can experience peace and find hope (John 16:33).
Now is the time for believers to exercise their faith, rather than to give in to fear.
Reach out to God and trust Him with your fears. I Peter 5:7 (NIV) tells us, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you”.
Encourage other believers, and don’t ‘feed’ the negative talk surrounding most of us daily. Many people, especially those weaker in their faith or unbelievers, will be experiencing hopelessness and fear. (I Thessalonians 5:11)
Reach out to unbelievers! During times of trials and natural disasters many people will be open to hearing and receiving the good news and hope found in Christ when they would otherwise be resistant. (I Peter 3:15, Ephesians 2:10, Mark 16:15)
What an opportunity!
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7, NIV)
