Overcoming Fear and Anxiety

We are living in unprecedented times. The whole world is gripped with the fear and anxiety due to the corona virus. We, however, do not have to live in fear. Do not let negative thoughts and worry take control of your mind!

 

You cannot control the circumstances, but you can always control your thoughts about them. The fact is that thousands of people have already died because of this virus. Millions have lost their jobs. Children are out of school and parents are faced with the challenge of homeschooling and keeping them occupied. There is even a shortage of toilet paper! If you look at the facts, it is easy to feel worried and anxious about life ever getting back to “normal.”

 

I am not trying to minimize the risk or loss that so many have had or are experiencing now. However, I want to remind us of the Apostle Paul and his many sufferings. In 2 Corinthians 11. We read that he received 39 lashes five different times. He was beaten with rods three times. He was stoned once. He was shipwrecked three times. He spent a day and night out in the open sea. Often, he was hungry and thirsty. He was frequently in chains in prison. Despite it all, Paul considered them light afflictions. How could he stay calm and continue his powerful ministry in the midst of the many storms of life?

 

Paul had an amazing attitude. He had an eternal perspective throughout his trials and sufferings. He was convinced that God was in full control of his life. He did not let his external circumstances affect his internal attitude. When we are faced with challenges, we too can find comfort knowing that God is in control of our lives. A virus does not control your destiny, God does. The number of your days He will fulfill (Deuteronomy 23:26). When you are facing troubles and uncertainties, fine-tune your attitude. Do not focus on the doom and gloom; instead, focus on God’s promises. A better future is just around the corner.

 

Take this time to reflect on life. Hardship brings vision, clarity, and growth. Difficulties and disappointments force us to reconsider our priorities. Do not just go through this, grow through this. Use this time to look inward and recalibrate our lives according to the will of God. The corona virus grounded me from all my ministerial travels, but I am having a personal revival with the Lord. God is shining His light on areas where He wants me to come up higher. I am learning to listen, yield, and go through the pruning process. I do not like it. It is painful and uncomfortable, but I have surrendered to this season of purification and allow God to refine me. Here is the good part: “All my troubles will turn out for my good” (Psalm 119:71 MSG).

 

Tough times do not last. Tough people do. No matter what you are facing, there will be an end to it. We are currently experiencing a pandemic but this, too, shall pass. The same Spirit of God, that raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you (Romans 6:10). Sickness, lack, job cuts, worry, anxiety, fear, addiction, legal battles, loss, and defeat cannot keep you down. You are born to win for God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).

 

The late Zig Ziglar said, "Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.” This is so true! King David endured much, yet his life was highlighted by high praises towards God. Is it any wonder that he was called a man after God’s own heart? Mark Twain said, “I’ve had a lot of worries in my life, most of which never happened.”

 

Friend, are you dwelling on fear and anxiety or are you dwelling with the high praises of God? Remember, that you have more of whatever it is you thank God for. God is a rewarder. The Scripture says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6).

 

No matter what you are facing today, God has you in the palm of His hand. Every time you make a major effort to please Him, a major blessing will follow. Your fears may be real, but God’s power is greater. Why not turn your troubles over to God? Remember that no external circumstances can control your internal attitude. Shift your focus from worry to faith. Outlast the opposition. You are positioned for a major reward. Let us express gratitude for all that we have so that God can deliver us from all harm. We love you and are spending extra time in prayer for you and your loved ones!

 

“Everything serves His plans” (Psalm 119:91 NLT).

 

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