Should Christians Be Afraid In Times Of Crisis?

It's natural to feel fear in times of crisis. But a powerful message from Dr. Charles Stanley reminds us that, as Christians, we can choose faith over fear!

The news on any given day is usually enough to leave just about anybody feeling anxious. But as the coronavirus pandemic spreads globally, panic and fear have literally seized the world.

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In times of crisis, God wants us all to make wise decisions and do our part. We certainly shouldn't be reckless. 

But what God doesn't want is for us to live a life controlled and overwhelmed by fear. And a message from Dr. Charles Stanley of In Touch Ministries is helping remind us of how we can use God's Word to fight fear.

Faith Over Feelings In Times Of Crisis

Food shortages, shutdowns, quarantines, social distancing -- the 2020 coronavirus pandemic is a time of crisis like none of us have ever seen. And there are so many messages out there about what we should and shouldn't do. But Dr. Stanley reminds us to look to God for guidance during these uncertain times.

"What is God's message to us in this troublesome, trying time we are facing?" he asks.

The first thing to remember in times of crisis is that God is in control.

We don't need to waste our time worrying about the what-ifs and all of the things we can't control. Instead, we are responsible for our response to "what God has allowed to happen at this time in our country."

Dr. Stanley says this time of crisis is a time for courage, not fear. As believers, we have a powerful influence in this country. So, we should be asking what He wants from us as believers.

"What is God's instructions to us as believers?" Dr. Stanley asks.

God Says 'Be Not Afraid'

Over and over in Scripture, we find God telling us to not be afraid. And in addition to pointing us to multiple passages, Dr. Stanley urges us to focus our hearts and attention on the Word of God so He can help us overcome feelings with faith.

"This is a time not for pleasure, but prayer -- prayer like we've never prayed before," Dr. Stanley says. "Not a time for fear and depression, but a time for faith and obedience."

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Dr. Stanley goes on to provide a powerful message of hope that exists for all of God's people during times of crisis.

"I'm going to plead with you in Jesus' name," he says. "Now don't live for your sake and your good health, but for the sake and the good health of the nation, to surrender your life to Jesus Christ today. Trust Him to save you. . . God will heal our land."

WATCH: Dr. Charles Stanley On Choosing Faith Over Fear In Times Of Crisis

Bible Verses To Fight Fear In Times Of Crisis

"The LORD hath established his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all." Psalms 103:19

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me." Psalms 23:4

"I have chosen you and not cast you away. Don't you be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness."  Isaiah 41:9-10 

"No instrument of war which is formed against you will be of any use. And every tongue which says evil against you will be judged false. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord" Isaiah 54:17

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you: not as the world gives, give I to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

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h/t: In Touch Ministries

Feature Image: Getty Images/demaerre

Mel is the senior writer for GodUpdates, finding, writing and sharing Christian, uplifting, and health-related stories from around the world. Mel has a passion for writing and graduated with a degree in English from Randolph-Macon College in Virginia. When she’s not researching and writing stories, Mel is very active in her church. You can usually find Mel playing board games with her husband and two young girls, giving someone a hug, or hunting down a good cup of coffee!