2 Timothy 1:7

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline ~ 2 Timothy 1:7

 

These are good words for this day we are living in, for many are living in fear of the pandemic which has invaded our world. We can live in bondage to fear and panic, though this is not the way of God, or the way in which He desires us to live. On the other side of living in fear during these days of the virus, are hearing the stories of how people are caring for others in ways that keep the social distancing rules in place. I am always touched by the showing of people standing in a hospital parking lot in front of their cars, keeping the six feet apart (two meters) and honking their car horn, or clanging instruments to celebrate the work our hospital people are doing for us, or to hang a sign in a window which encourages those who might happen to read it to stay strong, that they are not alone. This is to live with power and a sound mind. It does not give in to fear, but rises above it in love. This love, we know as Christ followers, is not only to others, but to God who is above. How sad it is when He does not receive the glory for the sciences which bring healing to people from COVID through Doctors, Nurses, and lab companies looking for the vaccine. How sad to not give God the glory calming the storm of the virus through the self-discipline instilled into people to keep distance, to stay home when sick, to not live with selfish intentions, but to sacrifice for others. It is a well-balanced person who lives with correct influences which Paul is talking about here. It is courage which calls us to stand apart in this day, for isolation has always been proven to be a detriment to the mental well-being of people, yet this is what we must do. It takes courage, not weakness, to say I will stay away, I will not embrace, I will not visit those I love and care for during this time of 2020. We have a Living Holy Spirit within us. He gives us strength and power to love and live in this way and in this day!


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