Fear And Uncertainty In The Time Of COVID-19

by Raymund Tamayo

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6–7

Luzon Island's Enhanced Community Quarantine should be over on April 12 or April 14, if you believe the official government statement. But there are rumors it might extend up to May or June if the curve of the virus infection does not flatten or subside.

There are also whispers saying it could prolong for as long as six months. Imagine that, we will still be in this situation up to September.

When you look at the numbers, it looks like the infection is still very far from its peak. Unfortunately, our country does not have the ability to test every potential infected. Even more disappointing, once the testing kits arrive, there is VIP treatment on who gets to use them first.

As expected, government officials and their families are first on line. Tragic, but that is just the way it is in the Philippines.

Based on just common sense, I can say that the "lockdown" will definitely not be lifted according to plan.

Uncertain Times

We have stashed enough food and supplies to last us until the first half of April. But after that, I don't know. 

Compared to other families in our area, we are fairly prepared. Others do not even know where to get their daily basic needs. The lockdown hitting them by surprise is an understatement. I could only imagine what it was like to still go outside, risk getting infected, as you look for food for your family.

I think I may have to do that myself, when the lockdown gets extended.

Fear And Uncertainty

Humans naturally feel fear because of uncertainty. I am not exempted to this. 

However, as a Christian, I have an answer to that fear, and that is my trust in the Lord our God. I know this is not for everyone, but this is what works for me.

The Bible says "fear not" or "do not be afraid" or "do not fear" 365 times. If it was mentioned that many times, then it must be quite an important reminder.

Trust God

We don't know what the future will bring. We don't have any control about what is going to happen. We can only control ourselves, our actions and reactions.

But, as Christians, we believe the One who controls everything. He stays in control and He always has a purpose for everything.

When we look to our government officials, or our next paycheck, or the free money we are going to receive from the government, we place our trust in someone or something other than God.

Fear and uncertainty will absolutely hold us when we put our trust in anything other than God.

God Is The Answer

God is the answer to all fear and uncertainty. 

Of course, you can choose to put your trust in a thousand other things. And, with them, you may find your own standard of peace. But it would only be a false sense of security or, at best, passing relief.

God gives us peace that no one can completely understand. It is peace in the midst of trouble, trials, and tribulation. And this peace will control the way we think and feel.

There is peace with Jesus Christ. He is the Good Shepherd, the Bread of Life, our Rock, the Light of the World, the Victorious One, our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.

He alone is worthy of our full trust and confidence.