Billy Graham once said, “The Bible is not an option; it’s a necessity.” This is especially true in times of despair that can lead to anxiety and fear. “I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.” Psalm 34:4
Reading Scripture is a necessity for all of us Jesus followers, but even now more than ever. It is our source of comfort and wisdom. It encourages, inspires and reminds us of our hope in Jesus Christ.
One of the other ways to keep our minds fixed on Jesus is by intentionally being grateful. Every day think of things you are thankful for and tell him. Thank him for his love, mercy, peace and provision of everything you need. You can share other feelings and thoughts with him, too, of course, but he is our Good Shepherd and worthy of all thanks and praise.
Fear is something God designed, not the devil. God designed fear so that we would flee real danger. Fear is meant to be a mercy. Its purpose is to direct us to safety. When our soul is ordered right, we fear the Lord and turn away from evil (Job 28:28).*
So how can we keep running the race of faith in a world of fear because of a pandemic virus seemingly turning our world upside down right now. We fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Fearing the Lord is believing the Lord (or having reverence for the Lord).
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)
So, lay aside the weights of your fears and believe in Jesus. Jesus is running with you and he’s stronger than Satan. “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13
*Jon Bloom, “Lay Aside the Weight of Fear,” Desiring God, April 19, 2013
www.desiringGod.org/articles/lay-aside-the-weight-of-fear.