Lean on What Is Certain to Stay Calm in a Pandemic

Almost no one likes something uncertain. For example, when making an agreement, they will make sure every point in it is clear and signed on stamped paper. Otherwise, the agreement could end up harming one of the parties.  

The problem is, in life there are so many uncertain things. Among them, the COVID-19 pandemic which has already gone on for who knows how many months. Vaccines and treatment methods are still being updated. People are beginning to worry, when will the business climate become conducive again? How long will children have to study online? How can you find a life partner if you never meet in person? And there are many other worries related to the pandemic situation. 

As people of faith, how should we respond to life's uncertainties?

Remember, God's Promises Are Certain

When those around us begin to complain about the impact of the pandemic, as believers, we must be able to see from a different side. This all-around uncertainty is actually proof that only in God is there certainty. The world is unable to promise the certainty that Jesus promises. God promises that those who believe in Him will not perish.

“And I give them eternal life, and they will surely never perish forever, and no one will snatch them out of My hand.” – John 10:28

God never promised to give ease. However, He promises His presence. The difficult time we are experiencing right now is an opportunity to keep holding on to God's promises and trust more deeply that He will not leave us.

"But now, this is what the LORD says, He who created you, Jacob, He who formed you, Israel: 'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not sweep over you; when you walk through the fire, you will not be burned, and the flames will not set you ablaze.'" – Isaiah 43:1-2

Instead of constantly asking when things will return to normal, or nurturing fear of the risk of disease and death, it is better to use the time to be productive. Dig in and find out what productive things we can do. A pandemic does not always mean hardship. The proof is that many people have profited from business sectors that actually surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Believe that God has more than enough power to protect us. Do our part by obeying health protocols, and work as well as we can to provide for our families. The rest are things beyond our control, so surrender them all to God.

By holding on to God's promises, we will not be swept away in confusion, anxiety, or excessive worry, but will gain a new and more optimistic perspective. 

Believe, Everything Works for Good

Perhaps we often pray, “Lord, end this pandemic. Remove this problem from us.” This is not wrong. However, there is a slightly better prayer, namely: “Lord, enable us to go through this pandemic, and teach us to do Your will during these times.”

Perhaps God wants to do something great in us through this pandemic. He wants us to grow in faith, draw out our best potential, and unleash our creativity. Perhaps God wants us to be closer to family that has been neglected all this time. So, yield yourself to follow God's purpose and plan.

We know now that God works in all things for the good of those who love Him. – Romans 8:28a

If we only pray that the pandemic will pass, we will remain the same people we were when things were still normal. We will not learn or gain anything new. It is different if we yield ourselves to be shaped by God through difficult circumstances. When the pandemic ends, we will become people who are more faithful, creative, and wise, because we went through it under God's guidance.

Others may complain about declining income, stalled businesses, layoffs everywhere, the danger of infection, and so on. However, we can “see” what is unseen: God is showing His power, because He is the true source of protection. God is showing His goodness, because you and I are still being given the opportunity to live until today. 

Even when people are afraid of the danger of death, as believers we still have to see from a different side. Death is not the end of everything. Rather, it is the beginning and the doorway into eternal life. This does not mean that we are despairing and want to end our lives quickly. However, we have faith that even in the worst risk, God's goodness remains. 

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. – Philippians 1:21

Let us remain faithful, believing that in this highly uncertain situation, God has a good purpose for us. If so, why should we worry excessively?

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This uncertainty-filled COVID-19 pandemic is our opportunity to see and experience God's love and goodness. Only God can give the sure promise of salvation. And He works for our good in every condition. Let us live through this uncertainty by leaning on the One who is certain. Amen. 

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