goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Pandemic Peace

By Linda Tancs

Peace is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), a desirable attribute at every turn. Think how different the world would be if we experienced a pandemic of peace. We always need peace, especially now in the midst of the health pandemic known as coronavirus, or COVID-19. Anxiety, fear and economic uncertainty rise with every new case. When those emotions (and plenty more) seize your heart and mind, think of the story of the disciples in the boat with Jesus during a storm. The moment that a furious squall whipped over the Sea of Galilee, they were in full-throttle panic mode. Then they woke a sleeping Jesus to pronounce their imminent demise, much to His chagrin. Notwithstanding their lack of faith (and peace), he calmed the waters (Matthew 8:23–27; Mark 4:35–41; and Luke 8:22–25).

If nothing else, the disciples learned that God was on their side. That’s the essence of peace. If He is for us, then who, or what, can be against us (Romans 8:31)? Keep your peace, and share it with others. Also pray for the recovery of those who are affected by this virus.

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As part of FOOT FORWARD MINISTRIES, Go Forward in Faith represents faith-based meditations for personal and professional growth. Learn more at goforwardinfaith.com. Follow us on Twitter @moveonfaith and join the Facebook group @goforwardinfaith.

 

 

 

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Joy to the World

By Linda Tancs

Joy is the essence of a Christ-centered life. Indeed, Jesus reminded his followers that He came for us to have and enjoy life (John 10:10). Joy is a fruit of the Spirit, an attribute of the Christian life (Galatians 5:22). It’s good medicine (Proverbs 17:22). So how do you acquire it? One way is to avoid fear, worry and control. What do you fear? Abandonment? Failure? Death? Fear is sometimes instinctual but often learned behavior. Paul reminds us that God did not give us a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7). Worry is closely associated with fear. But why worry when you can pray (Philippians 4:6-7)? As Matthew pointed out in his gospel, worrying won’t add one cubit to your life (Matthew 6:27). Another joy-robber is a need for control. Are you a control freak? Don’t be a slave to your own agenda. It’s not about you (1 Corinthians 6:19). Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to advance God’s agenda, the common good, which is to look to the interests of others above your own (Philippians 2:4). Imagine how joyful you’d feel contributing to the needs of others, especially the poor and needy.