Fear in 2020

The decision to suspend meeting times for our Prayer Gatherings and Bible Studies has been difficult but one necessitated by the world-wide coronavirus crisis with growing concerns right here in Beaver County. These are unprecedented times for so many of us. There have been international and national health crisis in our lifetimes, but this one has grabbed everyone’s attention more than any others I can remember. We know our government leaders and medical experts tell us we must isolate as much as possible, and as good citizens who care about one another we should honor those instructions. On the other hand, we know that isolation, combined with stressful situations is a breeding ground for discouragement, depression and greater susceptibility to temptation.

Here is a breakdown of what blogs will be used and which lessons you can find on them:

firstbaptistchurchnb – Sunday messages and church announcements

crnewbrighton – Celebrate Recovery lessons

Goddoestherightthing – Wednesday and REAL discussions

Links to these blogs are located on the right-side panel of each blog.

For tonight, we continue our study of overcoming fear. When we started this some weeks ago, there was no indication the situation would unfold as it has. How then, do we handle the fear of coronavirus including the health and financial issues pressing upon us?

Following the advice and instructions of government and medical personnel is a necessary starting point, but that may not eliminate or even reduce your fear. The only real way to deal with these very real fears is to cast your cares upon the Lord, for He loves you (1 Peter 5:7).

The issues surrounding our current situation are complex, but I suggest that the answer to our fear is a simple one…faith. The answer to fear is knowing who God is and trusting that He always does what is right. We know Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (NKJV). Is our trust in Him and His Word dependent upon how difficult our situation is, or do we believe it is true always? Consider Job, Jeremiah or Daniel who suffered great affliction and experienced devastating circumstances engulfing them, yet they trusted God, trusted His sovereignty.

I suggest that starting tonight and throughout the coming days or weeks, we become serious students of 1 Peter. Sit down with your Bible, pray before you begin for the Spirit to guide you, and then pour over the truth of this short New Testament Book. Take notes, write things down; you can even post some comments.

I look forward to on-going discussion with you about 1 Peter in the coming days.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Mark