COVID-19 Lessons for Christians

Last updated on June 9, 2020

A few lessons the COVID-19 pandemic can teach us about being Christian, especially in times of trouble.

Relationships are important. As the pandemic spreads, health departments recommend avoiding groups of people, but it is still important to maintain relationships. Electronic methods, such as Zoom and Face time, and that old wired device – the telephone – allow for personal connections without being in the same room. Jesus said, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20), but that gathering does not have to be face to face.

Hoarding is bad. We all need supplies, such as food, medicine, etc., during the crisis. But do we need to stockpile enough goods to survive indefinitely? Enough for a reasonable period of time, yes. Excessive hoarding out of fear, no. In the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21), Jesus warns, “Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions” (v. 15), especially toilet paper.

Be different. As Christians, we should be different than everyone else around us, in a good way. So, when everyone else is freaking out, be calm. When everyone else is fearful, be hopeful. When everyone else is frantic, be patient. Paul implores us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2), by focusing on what God tells us repeatedly …

… fear not. The sentiment of “Fear not,” or “Don’t be afraid,” or a similar phrase, is a cornerstone of God’s promises to us throughout the Bible, especially when a major change is about to occur.

Like Moses telling the Israelites to stand firm right before the Red Sea parts as the Egyptian army bears down on them (Exodus 14).

Or God giving Joshua a pep talk before conquering the Promised Land (Joshua 1). Or angels trying to calm down Zechariah and Mary while announcing they would inexplicably become parents (Luke 1).

Or more angels encouraging startled shepherds to relax and go visit the newly born Savior (Luke 2).

Or Jesus comforting his disciples before his death (John 14).

And for us in the midst of major global upheaval: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).

It’s perfectly normal to initially stress out when you hear something fearful. But if you believe in the power of God and have faith in Him, why would you continue to dwell on that fear and allow it to spread like a virus?

What other positive lessons from this crisis have you learned?