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THE NEW NORMAL

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Sir,

We are living in times of uncertainty and there are many things being said about COVID-19. First, we heard that the virus is not airborne, now some are saying otherwise. Some say it’s a political move, an economic agenda, a new world order conspiracy, the end of the world, the end of times, and others say it’s the beginning of the end. Whatever people say, the facts are undeniable and very real. People are getting sick and are dying, the economy is hit hard, countries are in lockdown, schools are closed, travel is banned and it’s no more business as usual. Life has changed to what is being called the ‘new normal’. We are now walking in the unknown fog of the coronavirus.

As human beings, we tend to respond to this kind of news with worry and fear. But, if you’re a Christian you will know that time is ticking and things like this will happen. Even though the situation is serious, we must have faith in God because faith creates paths where there were none before. Faith brings answers from the Lord at the right time. Faith will make us see things from God’s perspective. It will empower us to adapt to the times, and to change our language in the face of these difficult situations. The most frequent command in Scripture is ‘do not fear’! Over and over again, God says to His people, “Do not fear! Do not be afraid!”

Fearful

The reason that God repeats these words so many times is that He knows that life in this imperfect world often creates fear in us, and He knows that we are fearful. He knows this, and He does not condemn us for our fear; rather, He encourages us, over and over again, to be of good courage, because He is with us even in the darkest of times. As you face the uncertainty of the coronavirus in your families and communities, remember God’s most frequent command to humanity: “Be bold! Be strong! For the Lord your God is with you!” On a practical note, I encourage you to begin your day, not with reading the latest news on your phone, but with reading words of God’s providence and giving thanks. Neuroscience tells us that a daily custom of gratitude changes the functioning of the brain’s ‘fear centre’. In other words, practicing daily gratitude literally rewires the brain, reducing negative emotions like fear, and increasing wellbeing.

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