Biblical Response to the Coronavirus

Right now the world is in panic mode. The overall state of people seems to be fear, whether that fear be from the virus itself or from the uncertainty of what the future holds as things close and come to a halt. But as a Christian what should our reaction be? How should we respond to a world in chaos? In this situation, just like every other situation, we need to look to the Bible for the instruction and guidance we need. What does the Bible say?

If you were to read Mark 4:35-41 you would find the disciples out at sea in the middle of a storm. This storm was a storm that was far worse than the average storm as it had even these professional fishermen fearing for their lives. The Bible tells us that the waves beat against the ship to the point that is was full of water. Needless to say they were in panic mode. They were sure they were about to die. However while all this was going on we find Jesus was in the ship the entire time sleeping. As the disciples woke Him up to make Him aware of the inevitable they were about to face, Jesus calmly rebuked the storm by saying “Peace be still”. Immediately the storm ceases, the winds stop, and the sea is calmed. 

What is interesting and worth us noticing though is the conversation that takes place after the storm. In verse 40 Jesus rebukes His disciples “Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?” Was the storm they faced real? Yes! Was their life in danger? Yes! But Jesus reminds them that He is the one in control of it all. When He is in control (He is in control!) we can go forward in faith rather than being paralyzed by fear.

I like to refer to Psalms 46 as the worst case scenario Psalm. But perhaps Psalms 46 sums it up the best. Psalms 46 presents a worst case scenario and then tells us that even if this were to take place we still should not fear since our faith is in God. Psalms 46:1-3 tells us “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.”

So in light of the coronavirus the Bible is clear we should not live in fear! So then what is the right response? Proverbs 21: 31 tells us “The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.” So then first of all we should prepare and be wise. Wash our hands, clean our surroundings the best as possible, and stay home if we are sick. But don’t forget that safety is of the Lord. God is the one Who is ultimately in control and we need to just trust Him. God has a plan and will see it through from beginning to end let’s just trust God!