“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” – John 14:1,2 (KJV)
Not being troubled, especially in the middle of a pandemic, seems virtually impossible. But, Christ can comfort us.
I read somewhere that our fear should be an invitation to faith.
A Christian, recently told me of a conversation they had with another Christian about what sounded like a panic attack of sorts. In the midst of this attack of anxiety (which was in reference to the pandemic and fear of death) this other Christian calmly said to them they didn’t feel they would get the virus or die, but if that did happen they would enter the prescence of God. A place of perfect peace. Now that is faith!
One thing I will say is that the shadow of death should encourage us all to examine ourselves, to make our calling and election sure. “Am I in Christ?” “Am I following Him well?” If the answer is no to either or both of these then now is the appointed time, now is the day of salvation. Accept Him as Lord and Savior and bear good fruit. Do not delay!
I’m not going to lie, I have struggled with thoughts in relation to death, this pandemic and all kinds of other anxiety. In fact I have a feeling I may have a social anxiety disorder, but still need to confirm that with a professional. So the bottom line is I am no stranger to anxiety. I do get it and understand others who do.
Yet, I recently rediscovered a verse that was so dear to me as a child and as a newly converted soul. The verse says, “Do not let your heart be troubled.” It was on the cover of a small tract that I think belonged to my Mum’s Granny originally. I still own the tract to this day. I find the words less like a demand, and more like an encouragement. Almost as if Abba is saying, “Come what may I have got you and I have got this. Be still my child, fear not.”
I close with another verse:
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (v27)
