The world just got crazy…crazier. COVID-19 has us all on high alert. The world is full of dangerous calamities. Yes, everything happens for a reason, but not always a good reason. Yet, Jesus tells us to not be “alarmed,” with a modern translation reading something like, “Don’t freak out.” Instead, he offers us peace.
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed . . .”
Matthew 24:6
Rational Concern
So, what is the difference between being alert and aware of your situation with rational concern and being alarmed or freaking out? Let me help you draw the line.
Taking practical action is the opposite of freaking out. Freaking out is when you constantly talk, think, and post on Facebook about something for which you are fearful. If it affects your ability to live life, you are freaking out. It is good to take practical steps, like installing a deadbolt on your front door. Don’t let fear control how you live. Do what you can; trust God for the rest.
Choose Peace
It used to be that we got our bad news from television. Not anymore, social media has upped the ante. Social media makes it worse, because when you click “like,” the algorithm is programed to send you more of the same kind of message. You pick the category . . . bacteria is killing all live stock . . . migrants are stealing our jobs. Click it and you get more posts reinforcing the message. The next thing you know you are dragged in to believing that calamity is at the door. At some point, we have to tune out and focus on something good. We have to choose peace.
When the world appears out of control, remember, we can trust that God is holy, good, loving, and in control. We don’t need to freak out. Instead, we can have peace. We can remind the people in our world that they don’t need to freak out. Our God is good. He loves us, and he loves them. Our vision is often limited; what looks like terror might actually be triumph. What looks like heartbreak might actually be healing. It is good to remind each other by recounting the blessings of God. I know from experience, even COVID-19 is something God can work out for our good.
“Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.”
Psalm 37:7
Copyright © 2020 Chuck Locklear
Also, see Growth Mindset.