Pastor's Ponderings, March 9, 2020

Today, we are blessed to have our daughter, Dr. Malika Fair, to share her thoughts about the current health crises. 

Admitting My Fears

I admit it. I am a Christian and I am afraid. I’m fearful about the health and well-being of my family and friends amid the COVID-19 outbreak. With each passing day, my concern worsens. From a professional point of view, I should not panic and instead take similar precautions to preventing the flu. But personally, I worry that the small percentage that will be severely impacted will include someone I love. What if my prayers aren’t answered and they succumb to this virus? What if I can’t travel to say goodbye? What if I am the one infected and infect someone else?

Even as Christians, it is okay to admit when fear and doubt is present (Mark 9:23, 24). But as a Christian, I’m called to recognize where those feelings come from. The Bible says that God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). Since I’m His, I can choose to embrace what He has given me. 

So, I choose to walk in power. For me that means having the courage and strength to carry out my duties as a mother, daughter, sister and physician even when I am afraid. I choose to walk in love. I will endeavor to pause, be present, and show appreciation and compassion every day. I will use my sound mind to make wise decisions, follow the recommendations to prepare for and prevent the spread of this disease and others.

I’m grateful that my Father in heaven has given me an opportunity to embrace power, love, and a sound mind. My fear isn’t going to vanish overnight, but I have a roadmap to fight my fears when they arise. 

Our days were already numbered before we arrived on this earth (Psalm 39:4-5). We can choose to live out our days in worry and fear or we can live by faith and boldly fulfill our purpose (John 9:4).  Let's admit that although we may be afraid, we can choose to walk in power, love, and a sound mind. 

Mark 9:23-24
New International Version (NIV)

23 “‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”

24 Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”

2 Timothy 1:7
King James Version (KJV)

7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Psalm 39:4-5
New International Version (NIV)

4 “Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is.

5 You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.

John 9:4
New International Version (NIV)

4 As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.