This guest article is written by Bishop John Reid of John Reid Ministries. For disclaimer information, visit our Contact page. 

It seems that everywhere you turn, every media outlet seems to be continually broadcasting the gravity of the Coronavirus or COVID-19. Amazingly, it takes the fear of a pandemic to convince everyone to wash their hands. Ironically, this is something we should have mastered as children.

We are witnessing an unprecedented sociological event. If you recall, the aftermath of 9/11 resulted in a significant change to our lifestyle. Life in America was never the same after that day and will never be the same whenever this event has ended. For example, we expect security at the airport, entering various venues, and we are constantly told “if we see something say something.” Now we see the cancellation of major sporting events and cities preventing large crowds from gathering.

We are seeing people re-frame from large gatherings including church services. We could soon end up being captives in our own homes for weeks. No more hugs, kisses, handshakes or even the high fives could soon be a thing of the past. These have been replaced by fist bumps and head nods. We are witnessing a new norm.

I have my own beliefs regarding the origins of the virus. Some are even quoting that this is a weaponized form of germ warfare that somehow escaped the laboratory environment. We don’t realize the economic impact yet there are so many products that come from China.

While we are praying and trusting God for His divine protection during this time it’s imperative that we take preventive measures given that we are in the flesh. Lysol, Clorox, and other cleaners are flying off the shelves. It was okay until there was a run on toilet paper. I returned to the store today to find there was no toilet paper. I find it hard to see any relation between a respiratory virus and these items.

There have been multiple trading stops on Wall Street and the panic of a pandemic can be worse than the virus itself. We see the volatility of the markets with this situation. Literally trillions of dollars in value are being lost at the fear of what the virus can do. Once again, the panic can be worse than the pandemic.

What do we do? Don’t succumb to the panic. Trust in the Lord (not CNN or Fox News) and lean not to your own understanding. I believe this scare can lead to a significant move of God. We are seeing and witnessing the slow degradation of our freedoms and I believe it is leading to a move of God.

If you are not able to attend your local church or the number of services is reduced, support your religious organizations through online giving. The work of the gospel must continue, and your funds are needed to sustain the church. Many of you know me from my knowledge and experience of teaching eschatology (study of the Last Days according to the book of Revelation). Do I believe we are in the last days, absolutely!

Jesus said let not your heart be troubled. Moreover, the Word of God teaches that we can be steadfast and unmovable always abiding in the work of the Lord you know your labor is not in vain. Just as a dog’s bark can be louder than its bike, the panic of a pandemic can magnify your lack of faith. Remember God is control over all things.

Bishop John Reid is the founder of John Reid Ministries, located in Cummings, Georgia. For more details visit www.johnreidministries.org or at https://www.facebook.com/MediaVFOM/