For many in the Co-vid global pandemic, emotions have risen to a level of panic. But followers of Jesus Christ are exercising faith over Coronavirus fear.
Not to be cavalier or careless. But to remain calm and confident.
To the non-religious, faith may seem overly simplistic. A form of hypothetical idealism. Or irrational, wishful thinking.
Yet, Christ-followers express a calm and confidence that’s undeniably real. And also appealing.
So if you’re wondering. Or curious. Or fearful enough to consider it. Here are three ways for exercising faith over Coronavirus fear.
Exercising Faith Over Coronavirus Fear Finds Security In A Sovereign God
We naturally seek to control our sense of security. First, through our individual abilities and resources. Then pursued through others like parents, family, significant others and friends.
And finally,
looking to government.
But the current Coronavirus Fear has shaken that up. Even government leaders admit they don’t have all the answers. Are unsure. Can’t give complete assurance. And that is unnerving.
For it’s the ultimate reminder–no one on earth is really in control.
However, Christ-followers are confident that God IS in control. That He cares about His creation. Down to each person.
And He has an ultimate plan for our spiritual well-being that is claimed through faith.
Exercising Faith Over Coronavirus Fear Trusts In God’s Word
Followers of Jesus Christ find reassurance over Coronavirus Fear by reading and studying God’s Word.
Not a faith, based on sentimental goodwill. But informed through Biblical knowledge, understanding and spiritual wisdom.
For it is understood and lived out by scriptural teachings. Authored by a sovereign God. And demonstrated through the life and death of Jesus Christ.
In the Bible, Christ-followers find reassurance, practical instructions and how to live with purposeful meaning.
They also gain spiritual guidance through historical narratives, relevant stories and real life principles.
In other words, the Bible is a treasure chest of God’s truth.
Exercising Faith Over Coronavirus Fear Anticipates An Eternal Destination
Christ-followers view death on earth as a beginning rather than end. It’s the start of a new, eternal life in heaven. Lived in community with other Christ-followers and an awesome God.
It’s the promise Christ-followers live for. And Christian martyrs died for. Although puzzling to those outside the faith. Yet, it’s still within their reach.
Furthermore, exercising faith over Coronavirus Fear provides the most powerful force on earth. Hope. Through faith, Christ-followers possess ultimate answers and a sure path forward.
Amazing, certain and available to all who choose to exercise faith. It creates calm and confidence rather than worry and dread.
A Christian disciple is a follower of Jesus Christ. Someone who embraces His teachings and imitates His life.
But what does that actually look like in today’s world?
Although not a complete list, here are five distinctions in a Christian disciple of Jesus.
A Christian Disciple Pursues a Growing Personal Relationship with Jesus Christ
Discipleship is not static. Accept Jesus Christ as Savior and join the heavenly “in” crowd. Rather, it’s growing and dynamic. And actively pursues an ongoing, deepening relationship with Christ.
A disciple’s life visibly displays the presence of Jesus.
Although they aren’t perfect and still fail sinfully at times. But they press forward through repentance on a spiritual journey of transformation.
They favor relationships over religious practices. And in those relationships, the fruit of God’s Spirit is evident in their lives.
A Christian Disciple is Devoted to Prayer and Studying God’s Word Personally and in Community
A disciple desires to know God, understand His word and enjoys hanging out with His people.
They invest time in prayer, studying God’s Word and building mutually accountable, supportive relationships with other Christ followers. Not have to. Want to.
As a result, disciples grow in personal convictions that govern a Godly life more than religious rules.
A Christian Disciple Regularly Worships with Other Followers of Jesus Christ
Disciples approach worship as a delight, not a duty. A family celebration as children of God.
Because through worship, disciples are spiritually energized as they express praise to God as a community of faith.
For in Christ, disciples find their true identity, purpose and meaning. They acknowledge their human weakness, dependence on God and one another.
And in so doing, form a resilient network through the power of God’s Spirit and a vibrant community of faith.
A Christian Disciple Embraces a Lifestyle of Serving
Jesus personally demonstrated to his disciples what it means to serve by washing their feet during the last supper. And then offered His life as the ultimate sacrifice.
His words and example were consistent. His expectations clear. Jesus calls disciples to serve others. Both individually and corporately as Christ-followers.
Therefore, disciples serve willingly, joyfully and indiscriminately. Without expecting gratitude. As an expression of their love for Christ. Knowing that to serve others is to serve Jesus.
A Christian Disciple Engages in Making Other Disciples
It was Jesus’ last instruction to his disciples—Go and make disciples. In other words, disciples are to engage others in following Jesus. In discipleship.
It’s not an option. It’s a divine mission.
Therefore, disciples make their faith public rather than private. They use their abilities and influence to advance God’s Kingdom.
And they understand that discipleship is a process. Often messy, with everyone on a different journey.
But they invite all to join. And speak into their lives through prayer, encouragement, insights from scripture and personal stories.
Since Christian disciples follow Biblical teachings, they live contrary to modern culture. And yet, paradoxically, by refreshing others, they in turn, are refreshed.
Most people will probably agree it includes one or all of them.
But where do they come from? Blessings randomly sprinkled from heaven? A successful enterprise? An enlighten state of being?
Or maybe something you do? Like giving back to the community or pampering yourself with a soothing hot tub after the kids are in bed?
Because if these words spoken by Jesus Christ are true, then why are so many people miserable? Why is Christmas saturated with sentimental feelings, and yet, the highest point of suicides during the year?
It’s often a time we turn to faith for answers. So as you reflect on life’s deeper meanings during this Christmas season and perhaps your own quest for the abundant life, here are some thoughts to consider.
To Find An Abundant Life Seek a Reliable Source of Faith
I believe happiness and joy are universal gifts from God that are available to everyone regardless of your belief system. Purpose you discover. Contentment you learn.
And we’re all turning to something in our search for them.
What is it for you? Is it proven? Reliable? Authentic? This is where you start.
And as you search, keep this principle in mind: Intangible rewards come from an intangible source. I think this is where many people go wrong.
They pursue the tangible—like money—to gain the intangible—like happiness. But it only leads to what king Solomon calls chasing after the wind. You can’t get there because the two run on parallel tracks.
Of course, there are many intangible paths to choose from. Which is the right one? And how can you know?
I’ve chosen Christianity as the most unique among all religions, paths to enlightenment and sources of happiness, peace, contentment and purpose. I talk more specifically about what makes it unique in my e-book, Christianity for the Average Joe. Check it out for a conversational explanation of what the Christian faith is all about.
Jesus Christ, its founder, claims to be God and the source of abundant life. Something only he offers. An exclusive claim and a big one at that.
Was he egotistical or self-delusional? And does he deliver?
Well, his path is not all that attractive to a contemporary mindset. It features denying yourself, following him and obeying his commands. So not only is he crazy, you’re a little crazy to follow him.
Which maybe explains why there’s not a bigger crowd following him today.
Even though I don’t think happiness, peace, joy, contentment and purpose are exclusive to following Jesus, he enhances them. Drives them deeper into my life. And builds in a resiliency that flourishes even through life’s ups and downs.
To Find An Abundant Life Embrace a Life Long Faith Journey
If you prefer something rational, materially rewarding or more inward and mystical, forget Jesus. Following him is the opposite of all that.
It’s a faith journey that’s outward focused—an approach radically different than every other religion and spiritual teaching. A formula that lives out his practical instructions in a community of believers.
Rather than a short-term fix, it’s a long term solution. And that’s what you should look for. Something that endures for a lifetime in the realities of a confusing world.
Contrary to some opinions, Christianity doesn’t have all the answers. There’s a daily struggle with doubts and your own, imperfect humanity. But there’s also an unexplainable, redemptive and personal presence that empowers and transforms you from the inside out.
And along with the other intangibles of happiness, joy, contentment and purpose, you find the most elusive, yet powerful expression on earth…hope. In this, Christianity stands alone.
To Find An Abundant Life Pursue a Faith that Keeps Pleasure in Proper Perspective
Ever watched a TV or movie scene where someone stumbles across the desert, dying of thirst and sees an oasis in the distance, but when they get there it’s a mirage?
That’s how pleasure is.
Like happiness and joy, I believe it’s a universal gift from God for our enjoyment. And when exercised and moderated within its design enhances joy, happiness, peace and contentment.
But ignore the instructions on proper use and what is intended as wholesome and sweet quickly turns unwholesome and sour. Followed by emptiness…longing…even bondage.
Pleasure seduces and allures with its charm. But when experienced only for its own sake, is a mirage. Another dead-end path to happiness and joy that leaves you feeling cheated and empty.
It contributes to and is part of an abundant life. But is unsatisfying by itself.
I guess, when you get down to it, the abundant life is so much of what so few of us want to pursue. And therefore, find it elusive. Always beckoning…and just out of reach. When it’s right in front of us all the time.
I wish you the best in your search. And hope you enjoy an abundant life and meaningful experience this Christmas season.
Two cultural lies that cause men to reject Jesus. I’m sure there are other reasons too. But these two drive deep into the masculine heart. And here’s why you can reject these lies rather than Jesus.
Men Reject Jesus Christ Because They Think He’s a Wimp
I don’t hear men say this. Probably if anyone did, indignant voices would protest in political correctness. Even from those who personally could care less about Jesus and Christianity. Which is exactly the point. That’s what I sense from many men.
They could care less about him.
If you want to follow Jesus, well good for you. But he’s not a guy that I relate to as a man or consider relevant. They don’t hate Jesus. They’re simply indifferent.
And this wimpy image of Jesus is consistently promoted by pictures and movie characters. He’s commonly a delicate-looking, pacifist with long hair and soft features wearing long, flowing robes.
And actors portray him as solemn and benign, with the personality of a paper doll. Like a nice guy that wanders in benevolent aimlessness, performing good deeds, but with no real drive or purpose.
Honestly? That image of Jesus doesn’t appeal to me either. And it’s unfortunate.
Because when you look at Jesus through the lens of scripture and you see a much different picture.
Jesus was a Carpenter
A first century carpenter was nothing like carpenters today. No cool leather tool belts, pneumatic nail guns and smoothly milled two by fours. Scholars suggest they probably worked more with stone than lumber. Because rock was a more abundant resource than trees.
Soft and delicate? More likely a weather beaten, rugged physique.
Turn the other cheek?
Yes, Jesus said that. But the context was an insulting face slap. Restraining yourself when someone goads you. Holding back from hauling off and throwing a punch back. Someone threatening or intentionally trying to harm you is a different matter.
Also, in his personal interactions, Jesus never cowered before, or was intimidated by anyone. Not the religious leaders of his day, the High Priest at his mock trial, or the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate that ultimately gave the nod for his crucifixion. Jesus held back for a reason. He was fulfilling God’s plan. Not because he was a coward or weak.
A Man of Power, Purpose and Action
Jesus, the carpenter, was the only one NOT terrified in a boat with career fisherman, on a sea, in the middle of a raging storm. In fact, he stood and authoritatively commanded the storm to cease…and it did. Now that’s power.
Jesus in scripture had a very specific, intentional purpose that he successfully accomplished. You can reject it…and a majority of men do…but the message and mission are clear when you read scripture.
There’s something far more compelling and real about Jesus than the popular stereotype portrays.
Jesus was Meek
The Biblical concept of meekness is probably not what you think. The modern perception of meekness is typically, mild manner passiveness. A push over. But that’s not the Biblical picture.
The Greek word actually means, power under control. Picture in your mind a powerful stallion controlled by its rider.
Furthermore, Jesus had ultimate power at his fingertips. But he controlled it. He submitted (not a term we like) himself to the will of His Heavenly Father.
As a result, he accepted crucifixion. Because it was part of the divine plan. The most tortuous, brutal form of execution ever devised. How many men today could do that…without ever breaking down into a whimpering mess? Jesus did.
Men Reject Jesus Christ Because They Think They Can Do It Themselves
I’ve heard people say it: Christianity is a crutch. Real men stand on their. They don’t need help. And there are role models to prove it.
Frank Sinatra crooned I Did it My Way. Buford Pusser walked tall and carried a big stick. Martial arts expert Steven Seagal laid out 10 guys with his bare hands without suffering a scratch. And Bruce Willis cracked fearless jokes while he single handedly defeated a small army in Die Hard.
The message? Man up. Do it yourself. And if you get hurt? Suck it up. Rub some dirt on it. Walk it off.
But sometimes an injury means you’ve torn or broken something you can’t walk off. At best, you hobble off supported by two people on either side.
However, here’s the truth. Sometimes you don’t have all the answers, resources, and strength. You hurt…maybe even cry. Need help and support.
We all do whether we want to admit it or not.
To Follow Rather Than Reject Jesus Christ Is A Man’s Highest Calling
It’s actually harder to follow Jesus today than you think. Because standing up for Jesus makes you stand out. Easier to blend in.
And following Jesus does not mean handing in your manhood. It’s submitting to God through meekness—power under control. Harnessing your drive and ambition into a purpose-driven faith. And pursuing a life of character and integrity.
Finally, it takes personal courage and unity with other men. Because you will fall…struggle…and fight to keep going.
I know I do.
But I press on. Because the Jesus in scripture is someone I can respect and follow. And through the power of God, and the support of like-minded men, that’s what I will pursue.
I invite other men to join me.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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