The world has felt a bit…unstable as of late, no? Between economic uncertainty, wars and rumors of wars, fires, floods, political upheaval, and disruption in our own lives, things feel far from steady and peaceful.
Peace Instead of Panic
Feelings of fear and panic arise in the midst of uncertainty. If we aren’t sure what is happening, we look to things that give us a sense of stability. One of the primary things we look to in these moments, whether we know it or not, are the social cues others give us. If our neighbors are stocking up like the world is ending, maybe we should too? Do they know something we don’t? Panic begets panic and the next thing we know, we are trying to find space in our pantry for the 20 extra cans of beans we just bought. Doing what others are doing gives us a sense of control in what is otherwise an out-of-control situation.
While we might not know what the future holds, Jesus does. Jesus is not surprised by the pandemics or natural disasters. He is pained by the devastation these things have caused across the world, but he is not surprised by it. In times like these, it’s wise to take a deep breath and remind ourselves of a few important truths:
- God is still in control of the universe
- He knows all, sees all
- Jesus is with us
- Our lives are in Good Hands
- In Christ, our eternity is secure
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
Stopping to reorient ourselves in Christ gives us the perspective we need in the midst of crisis and confusing times. Whether you are fearing the Coronavirus pandemic or facing a job loss or navigating other problems in your life, God’s heart is that we look to Him for peace and direction instead of the world around us. Had I reflected on any of this before my trip to Costco this week, I probably would have happily surrendered my toilet paper to an old man in need.
A good friend recently said, “God does not call us to stock up.” Instead, He calls us to take stock in His power, peace and provision. When everything feels chaotic and panic starts to rise in your soul, the peace of Christ, one of Jesus’ parting gifts that he gave us, is still yours for the taking. We have access to a supernatural peace that transcends news reports and and job loss and relational breakdowns.
In Christ, there is always peace.
