Dr. Ron Blue on the Correct Response to Covid-19

CORRECT RESPONSE TO COVID19

- Psalm 37

by: Dr. J. Ronald Blue

The most natural response to the mysterious and virulent Corona virus is fear. It is little wonder that people all around the globe are in varying degrees of panic. This invisible virus is deadly. The result is rightly labeled a “pandemic.”

We who have placed our trust in Christ are able to replace fear with faith. The very faith that brought eternal life gives stability in daily life, whatever the circumstances. “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.” (Col. 2:6, NKJV)

While proper precautions are both wise and warranted, there is no reason for panic. NBBI leadership made an excellent decision to postpone Commencement. My wife and I looked forward to being on campus for the Spring Bible Conference and graduation ceremonies the first weekend of May. This of course was rendered impossible. We are grateful that Commencement was not cancelled. We now anticipate an exciting celebration on Sept. 19.

Through these months of crisis and unprecedented restrictions, we turn to God’s Word for helpful instruction. The Psalms are always a great refuge. A specific list of proper response to pressing difficulties is found in Psalm 37. Four specific commands are provided.

TRUST IN THE LORD v. 3

We can be confident in a time of chaos and confusion. The Covid19 pandemic will pass in due time. It might even be resolved in the rapture. To be “caught up together… to meet the Lord in the air” (1 Thes. 4:16) would be the very best conclusion.

We know that our Lord is in full control of all circumstances. We trust Him and live for Him. With our confidence in the Lord, we are able to “do good” (v. 3b). It is a wonderful testimony to witness so many gracious acts of kindness through God’s people in the midst of the present global “lock down.”

Psalm 37 fits the present pandemic, “…dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.” The edict of leaders today is, “Stay at home!” Instead of the more common procedure to quarantine those who have contracted disease, healthy people are now ordered to self-quarantine to avoid any exposure to the infectious virus. The Psalm instructs us to “dwell” in God’s protection and “enjoy” God’s gracious provision.

DELIGHT YOURSELF IN THE LORD v. 4

We can be content in the worst of times. Death and disease are overwhelming. It is alarming to learn of related increases in severe depression, child abuse, and suicide. How can anyone be positive? The instruction is clear. In trials, joy is found in the Lord. As we distance from others, we draw closer to God.

There is a special promise to those who delight in the Lord. “…and he will give you the desires of your heart.” (v. 4b) God is not a doting father who spoils his children with anything they want. He provides the desires of a heart that truly delights in the Father. A God-centered heart is fixed on God-centered desires. These desires are graciously given.

COMMIT YOUR WAY TO THE LORD v. 5-6

We are committed to the One who is in full control. In the darkest of times, He lights the way. Jesus’ command is simple, “Follow Me.” (Mt. 9:9, et al) He may not give us a map, although He has one. He graciously provides a flashlight. There is always enough light to take the next step. We can even walk “through the valley of the shadow of death.” (Ps. 23:4) There is no fear.

In our walk of trust, the Lord promises even greater light. “He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.” The old hymn expresses this theme, “When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word, what a glory He sheds on our way….”

BE STILL BEFORE THE LORD v. 7

We remain calm in these unsettled days of Covid19. In place of frenzy and panic, we are at peace. God’s command is clear, “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Ps. 46:10) While the world seems to spin out of control and people around the globe are frantic, we look to the exalted One and rest.

We “wait patiently” (v. 7b) for God to fulfill His divine purposes. We need not demonstrate for personal preferences. We neither demand that all return to work immediately nor insist that everyone continue in quarantine indefinitely. We do not scream, “Do it my way or get out of the way!” This does not mean that we are disinterested or uninformed. Our calm approach is a result of obedience to the initial command in this Psalm, “Trust in the Lord.”

CONCLUSION

Four simple commands provide the perfect response to a seemingly impossible 2020 pandemic. Trust in the LORD. Delight yourself in the LORD. Commit your way to the LORD. Be still before the LORD.

Be confident. Be content. Be committed. Be calm. King Solomon summed it up in his succinct little volume, “Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments.” (Eccl. 11:13)