Pastor Dave Fisher

Do we react or do we respond to COVID–19?

As a pastor, I have had the opportunity to share God's Word about various needs people have encountered and part of my usual response is “God is still on the throne.” Nothing takes Him by surprise.

In times of crises it is wise to seek God's guidance. The Bible's book of wisdom, Proverbs, has good advice: First we must put our faith in the one who created and sustains the universe.

“The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe” (Proverbs 29:25; see also Proverbs 3:5-8).

Concern for what is going on is natural, but fear only keeps people from taking proper action.

Those whose sins have been forgiven through faith in the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross have His peace that passes all understanding.

It is also wise to listen to those who have expertise in whatever matter is being considered.

“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14).

The medical personnel's advice has been given to us in order to benefit and keep us healthy and each individual must determine, not only what is best for them, but also what is right for others as well.

The Biblical principle of loving your neighbor is being promoted by the professionals, even if it is not stated in those words. God also lets us know that attitude is important when it comes to our health: “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones” (Proverbs 17:22) and “All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast” (Proverbs 15:15).

Even the medical profession recognizes that, among other things, laughter reduces stress hormone levels, improves cardiac health, and produces a general sense of well being. Of course we cannot neglect one of the most important things to do is pray, whether we have a need or not.

“The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight” (Proverbs 15:8) and in verse 29 “The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.”

May God bless and heal our nation.

Pastor Dave Fisher is the long-time pastor of Homeacre Chapel on Whitestown Road in Butler.