What should we do with our fears?

The corona virus is dominating the news and many of us are fearful. What should we do if fear overwhelms us?

Perhaps the purpose of fear is to motivate us or propel us into action. Sometimes our fears are grounded and sometimes they are not. Regardless of how rational our fears are, there may be things we could or should do about them. For the corona virus it may be wise to stay away from crowds or to stock some food in case of possible quarantine.

When I was younger, with a growing family, I found myself at times overwhelmed with fears and thinking about those fears throughout the day. One day I decided I didn’t want those fears with me all day long. I would choose a time for “worry,” perhaps 7 pm. At that time I would assess my fears–were they rational–and if so, what action could I take to help prevent them. The funny thing is that when 7 pm came I often couldn’t even think what my fears were, or I didn’t feel like worrying about them.

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you,” Psalm 55:22. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” Psalm 23:4.