It’s difficult to measure the magnitude of this moment while we’re still in it, but it seems unprecedented for any who are now living. In the COVID-19 pandemic, things are changing rapidly, governments are communicating ever evolving instructions, grocery stores are struggling to stay stocked, people are hesitant to leave their homes, and most of us are concerned about not merely catching the virus but spreading to others who are especially susceptible.
Fear, worry, anxiety, apprehension, uncertainty—these words and more describe what so many are feeling right now. Maybe you feel it; maybe you know others around you who feel it.
Paul wrote to saints in Philippi about these sorts of feelings. Though this instruction was probably specific to a conflict there (see vv. 2-3), the principles apply broadly to our experience with trouble. Hear what the apostle instructs in Php 4:4-9:
Always rejoice in Jesus (v. 4). We’re not dismissing our troubles. We’re professing that our joy in Jesus is greater.
Purpose patience to others (v. 5a). Paul speaks of “reasonableness” or “gentleness.” The result is patience. The thing is that oftentimes fear promotes selfishness. We defend ourselves against loss, preserving what is ours. We are uncertain about the future, so generosity comes at a higher price. But a little gentleness, and reasonableness gets us outside ourselves, putting faith to work in service as we consider the troubles of others.
Know the Lord is near (v. 5b). What almost always pairs with the command to “be not afraid” is the truth that God is nearby. In those moments of anxiety, preach it to yourself and those around you: “Jesus is with us, and he is coming soon.”
Refuse to let anxiety persist (v. 6a). We must acknowledge that we do sometimes struggle with worry, but we cannot let that be the end of it. Confess it, repent, and trust the Lord. Our troubles confront us with our inadequacy, pushing us to the throne: “For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Cor 12:10).
Make your requests with thanksgiving (v. 6b). At God’s throne we our invited to ask for his help in everything, but to do it with the humility that looks back with gratitude at all he’s done this far and with the faith that looks forward to all we trust his gracious will provides.
Think through your situation in light of the gospel (v. 8). It’s a process we must learn, because we’re accustomed to seeing through the eyes of our own wants. Yet the gospel shows us what is true, honorable, just, pure…and we must adjust our perspective accordingly. Our temporal troubles are exposed by the mind full of this kind of light (Mt 6:22-23).
Look to good models of faith (v. 9a). Look to Paul. Look around to your brethren. Let their courage and conviction steady you in moments of fear. Good friends strengthen one another in the Lord (Php 3:17; 1 Sam 23:16).
Do the good you know God wants you to do, no matter what you feel (v. 9b). Know it. Do it. We may feel the onslaught of trouble, but fear is defeated in the endeavor of faith.
In all this Paul shares the promise: the God of peace will be with us, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. —Justin Dobbs