Guess what? The news media will continue to report on Coronavirus (COVID-19). It's their job, although many journalists may be doing so reluctantly. They are also being impacted by this pandemic. We can never forget that this is a global crisis; fear and anxiety are driving the behavior of many people. Being informed is critical; however, it is our personal responsibility to assess our emotional stability. We must learn to control our emotions and refocus our thoughts when we're becoming overwhelmed with distressing news reports. Monitoring our news intake is within our control.
From a spiritual perspective, God never intended for human beings to handle life's challenges apart from Him. We are frail and limited in our human strength, even though our egos say otherwise. We don't have the mental capacity or emotional stability without God's supernatural power to manage the perplexities and complexities of life. Therefore, HE provided a way for us to experience the peace we need when life's challenges arise such as this pandemic and other disastrous occurrences in our lives. That peace comes through His Son, Jesus Christ!
Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.- John 14:27
One of my most peaceful experiences is to behold the beauty of God's creation. It's something about seeing the effects of the wind, hearing it, while in awe of its invisibility. The calming breeze reminds me of the supernatural power of the eternal, immortal, invisible God, the Creator of heaven and earth. He controls all of His creation. It's reassurance that He's my fortress.
In addition, to experience the peace that eradicates fear and anxiety is to position yourself where your "gates" (eyes, ears, mouth) can be open to impart into your spirit. Be intentional and create an atmosphere where the calming Presence of the Holy Spirit is welcome and the peace that comes from the Prince of Peace--Jesus Christ is.
To ensure your emotional well-being and receive into your spirit the calming Presence of the Lord Jesus, here are some practical tips that brings spiritual results:
Protect your "gates." These are the entrances into your soul and spirit. Protect your "eye gate" by not constantly viewing negative, disturbing news. Avoid watching what will incite fear and increase anxiety. Instead, look at funny TV shows that make you laugh, wholesome family-friendly movies/old sitcoms or inspirational movies that communicate messages of faith, love and hope to remind you of God's truth. Look into God's Word, read it aloud, meditate on it, and allow the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to see. Ask Him to speak to you personally!
Protect your "ear gate" by not listening to rumors, gossip, criticism, negative opinions, and unfounded theories about Coronavirus. Instead, listen to spiritual songs and music that inspire. You can have your private praise and worship setting in your home. It will calm your spirit and create an atmosphere that ushers in the Presence of God. Social media has become a hotbed for fear and anxiety. Avoid negative LIVE STREAMS and posts. Scroll pass anything that will disrupt your peace of mind and shake your emotional stability. Your emotional well-being is under attack during this time! You need encouragement NOT discouragement!
Protect and guard your space. While social distancing and being under the "Stay Home-Work Safe" order, control the atmosphere in your home. Avoid an atmosphere that breeds fear, negativity and hopelessness.
Speak life not death (Proverbs 18:21). Words are powerful and what you say is evidence of what is in your heart (Luke 6:45, Matthew 12:34). Your tongue is a deadly fire (James 3:6). Therefore, be an encourager by speaking words that encourage and edify others and yourself (Ephesians 4:29).
Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Prayer is a privilege given by God. This is the opportune time to take advantage of it. Remember, if there's no communication within a relationship the relationship will be broken. Stay connected with God. AND if you are not connected, you can get connected by reading and applying these life-changing instructions in Romans 10:8-11.
Finally, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6)
Copyright 2020. Queen E. Phillips, Royalty Solutions. All rights reserved.