Fear is the great disabler. It impairs sound judgement, it silences healing words, and it paralyzes powerful actions.
The scripture says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). As followers of Jesus Christ, we cannot allow fear to divide and isolate. We cannot hide behind walls of worry and despair. When life looks darker, the light must shine brighter.
Rosa Parks, a great woman who stood for freedom, once said, “I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.” We must set our minds on what we can do now, both collectively and as individuals. So what do we do now?
WE MUST FIGHT THE SPIRIT OF FEAR
“…and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7)
- Pray for family and friends that have been personally affected. Ask the Lord to bring healing to their hearts and comfort them during times of anger and grief.
- Pray that the peace of God will overcome all anxiety and panic. Allow God’s peace to protect your own thoughts, words, and actions.
- Pray for government leaders, community organizers, clergy and other leaders. Ask the Lord to strengthen them and guide them by His Spirit so that they may be ambassadors of healing.
- If you have children at home, guard how much time they are exposed to conversations and media that are filled with frightening language or images.
- Turn the radio up and sing. Laugh out loud. Do something today that will bring a smile to your face.
WE MUST BELIEVE THAT THE POWER AND LOVE OF GOD WILL PREVAIL
“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love” (1 John 4:18)
- Pray that followers of Christ in our region will display the love of God by uniting together in prayer, worship, and acts of service.
- Pray for miraculous intervention. Believe that our supernatural God will show up in a real way!
- Pray that the Holy Spirit will lead you to someone in need (emotionally, physically, or spiritually). Be a source of resource!
- Buy someone a cup of coffee. Take a meal to an elderly neighbor. Choose to show the love of God in a practical way.
WE MUST ALLOW SOUND THINKING TO OVERCOME RAW EMOTION
“He who is devoid of wisdom despises his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his peace” (Proverbs 11:12)
- Pray that people will think clearly before they speak or act. Wisdom and understanding must guide us.
- Allow God to examine your own heart. Are there personal prejudices that are clouding your own thinking?
- In conversations you have, whether in person or over social media, strive to bring unity and healing in your language. Do not allow personal bias to bring pain or division.