Main Thought
Due to the spread of the novel coronavirus, we’re surrounded by fear in the media, on social media, and even the people around us. As Christians, we need to choose faith over fear! We rest in the unseen power of God, instead of being restlessly thinking about potential problems. Cultivating a climate of faith is one important step in choosing faith over fear. We must surround ourselves with people and media that point us back to God. We also need to do the opposite; limiting things that cause us to be fearful or anxious. We build faith further by internalizing the promises of God. God’s promises are active today and accessible by His children. Finally, we obey the call of God to “go” in faith - choosing prayer over panic and wisdom over worry as we do so.
Main Passages
35 While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher anymore?” 36 Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” 37 He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James. 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. 39 He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” 40 But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat.
- Mark 5:35-437 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
- 2 Timothy 1:7“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night,nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.
- Psalm 91:1-6
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the main thought?
What can we learn about God in the main passages?
Are you cultivating an environment of faith, or fear?
Apply
Find someone to encourage as COVID-19. Look for ways to help people.