It’s hard to believe that it’s only been a few weeks since Americans awakened to the threat of COVID-19. Yet within a short time, this event has radically transformed life in ways unfathomable within living memory. 

In addition to health concerns, COVID-19 has severely impacted restaurants, airlines, sports, schools, and large events. With businesses suffering and the economy in a tailspin, many are out of work.

In this time of pain for America and the world, what is our chief concern? While we most certainly should act wisely, do we spend more time worrying about our pocketbooks, heath, and essential supplies, or trying to view this from God’s perspective?

In times like these, how should we as Christians respond?

1. With Trust

We can take comfort knowing that God is sovereignly in control, working all things for His purposes. Knowing Him provides assurance amid the uncertainty. In times of crisis, the world has nowhere to run—we do. May we use this time to pray and reach out (safely) to the lost, that they may put their trust in Him. “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

2. With Gratitude 

As a whole, the average American lives a much easier life than was true a couple hundred years ago. The standard of living is higher, we have better hospitals, and a better understanding of disease. 

Recently, I listened to this podcast episode on “The Black Death.” Preceded by famine, and accompanied by war, this pandemic claimed over half of Europe’s population.

While in no wise minimizing the severe impact of the coronavirus, we do have it much better than we think. Let’s be thankful that many can work from home, and that modern technology allows us to remain connected while staying safe.

3. With Compassion

In this difficult time, our actions and words can shine the light of Christ. Could you financially support a small business? What about getting groceries or financial aid to neighbors who need it?

May we seek opportunities to share the gospel to those whose lives have been upended by this crisis.

4. With Family

If you live with your family, you may have more time together than you normally do. Take this extra time to read books out loud, play board games, reminisce, talk about the future, and enjoy one another. Cook meals together, put on a family game tournament, or have a family movie night with ice cream and chocolate sauce.

You can also use this opportunity in your family to discuss important topics, including health, preparedness, and the role of government and the church in times of crisis. For more ideas, read this excellent post from a friend.

5. With Reflection

With life slowed to a crawl, most of us can no more complain that we don’t have time for the important things. In this time, we must not miss the lessons God has for us.

Take time to honestly evaluate the state of your life and family: 

• How close is your walk with God?
• Are you living by eternal priorities? 
• How is the spiritual state of your family? 
• What does God want you to do in the future? What will live look like after COVID19?
• Why is God allowing this? Could he be revealing to us our pride and chastising us? 

6. With Wisdom

While we do wish to reach out to others, we must also take necessary precautions. The elderly and sick can be especially at risk during this time. We should stay healthy, prepare, and think ahead.

Most importantly, ask God for wisdom to make the most of this time.

7. With Humility

Above all, this is a time to seek God. Recently, a friend passed on this especially fitting passage of scripture, I Kings 8:37-40. Consider it carefully. “If there be in the land famine, if there be pestilence, blasting, mildew, locust, or if there be caterpiller; if their enemy besiege them in the land of their cities; whatsoever plague, whatsoever sickness there be; what prayer and supplication soever be made by any man, or by all Thy people Israel, which shall know every man the plague of his own heart, and spread forth his hands toward this house; then hear Thou in heaven Thy dwelling place, and forgive, and do, and give to every man according to his own ways, whose heart Thou knowest; (for Thou, even Thou only, knowest the hearts of all the children of men;) that they may fear Thee all the days that they live in the land which Thou gavest unto our fathers.”

As 2 Chronicles 7:14 says, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”

Yes, revival begins with us! May we humble ourselves, and pray for God to bring both physical and spiritual healing to our land. Oh, that God would use these times for His glory, to bring millions to Him.

Question: In what other ways should we respond to COVID-19?