To say we live in unusual times would be an understatement.
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Many of the things we have known and held as a society seem to have been swept away.
I think of such things as travel, sport, work, visiting friends, dropping in for a coffee at the café, and the list just goes on and on.
As a result of COVID-19, many people have become anxious and fearful of catching the dreaded virus and being forced to change from their normally ordered circumstances.
I don't want to downplay the seriousness of any people's situations and the need for us all to be cautious in the manner which we conduct our everyday lives.
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However, we need to recognise that anxiety can and does paralyse some of us by the "what ifs" in our lives.
Anxiety and fear can paralyse and confuse us to the point where we are unable to operate normally.
So, what is the answer?
My best advice is to look at what Jesus our Saviour says to each one of us, even in such a time as this.
In Matthew 6:25+32-33 He says to us, "...I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is life more than food and body more than clothing?" "..your heavenly Father knows that you need these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
Now I know the words of Jesus, "Do not worry or be anxious", seems like an impossible request for many people, however, we need to remember what God says to us in Jeremiah 29:11+12. also says to us, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you."
So, my advice is this - when your anxieties begin to talk to you, don't talk back to them - talk to God!
Cast all your cares upon Him for He cares for you.
Pastor Darryl Schwarz for the Horsham Christian Ministers Association.