Our response in times of crisis

As I write this, many people around the world are panicking because of the Corona virus.

How do we respond as Christians? I think we learn the answer through this chapter.

Do not learn the way of the nations or be terrified by signs in the heavens, although the nations are terrified by them, for the customs of the peoples are worthless. (Jeremiah 10:2-3)

These “signs” probably had to do with astrological predictions of disaster. People looked at the stars, saw disaster, and feared.

Perhaps the majority of people don’t think that way anymore, but people look at things like this virus and fear what will happen.

But we are not to be like the people of this world, fearing what they fear.

Instead, we should have three responses: worship, humility, and trust.

Lord, there is no one like you.
You are great;
your name is great in power.

Who should not fear you,
King of the nations.

For among all the wise people of the nations
and among all their kingdoms, there is no one like you. (Jeremiah 10:6-7)

Meditate on these words. Pray these words today. Meditate on and pray Jeremiah’s words in verses 10, 12-13, and 16 too.

Then with humility and trust, pray,

I know, Lord,
that a person’s way of life is not his own;
no one who walks determines his own steps.

Discipline me, Lord, but with justice–
not in your anger,
or you will reduce me to nothing. (Jeremiah 10:23-24)

Of course, be cautious in times like these. But let us not live in panic and terror.

Remember that we serve an awesome Lord. And in humility, let us trust him.