Living in Fear of Virus and of Government

The story of fear over the past two years cuts in more than one direction: fear of the pandemic and of government overreach.

In both cases, responses unveil a sort of anxious energy which the Gospel itself can and does qualm.

I suppose that's why I think Gospel centrality makes sense (and it's biblical). Perfect love, the Spirit abiding in us, means I neither ultimately fear death by the virus nor death of freedom by the government.

The gospel genuinely frees me from these fears as ultimate. Granted, the natural fear of both of these is real and don't disappear. But they are relativized in the literal sense—when related to God who wins, runs the show.

But we must trust God and not give in to the fear of viruses or government. We must obey God rather than men by appropriately respecting his reign in creation through authorities (e.g., Rom 13) and by denouncing the demonic fear that enslaves the imprisoned (Heb 2:14-15).

The key to both victories is self-control and trust. Self-control by not letting fear of political change nor viral infection destroy our well-being. Trust in God because he cares for us, and we belong to him.

There is a ditch on both sides of the road. Fear of the future (i.e., the loss of freedom and gain of government control) and the fear of the virus (and so our well-being). Entrust both to God.

Do your natural best to avoid harm in either direction. Ultimately, trust God.

In 2025, no one will care about your valiant stand at Tim Hortons out of fear of the government; in 2025, you might regret not seeing your loved ones out of fear of the virus.

Trust God. Obey God. Obey and trust him by entrusting yourself to his created order and to providential care of your health. You do all that you can within reason, then let the one who knows all take care of all. He cares for you.

[wp_paypal_payment]