In this past year, fear and confusion have dominated. We have been subjected to panic-inducing news coverage and predictions of doom from our government leaders. In public we encounter unrecognizable people in masks who scurry away with downcast eyes. Encouraging smiles and hugs are few and far between, just when we need them the most.

Fear and confusion test our faith and our confidence in both God and our fellow man. It is important to do what we can to resist the paralysis of these debilitating emotions.

The Bible is filled with words of comfort and courage for times such as this, but we must seek them out. When we do, we are reassured that no matter how things appear, God has a plan and He is in control.

When we realize that God deals both with individuals and with nations as a whole, current circumstances become less confusing. He may chastise a nation while at the same time comforting and blessing His children within that nation.

This month, the Turning Points devotional magazine from Dr. David Jeremiah has been focused on the Bible’s texts about coping with fear. I have found this resource, and others like it, to be a tremendous comfort in my search for peace in these turbulent times.

We Christians believe God is ever present and available to us. However, during times of testing it may be necessary to actively pursue Him. Many times we need the clarification and edification of other believers in order grow closer to Him and to understand His message.

If you find yourself sinking under waves of fear and confusion, reach out for the lifelines that are plentifully available to us.

A man of understanding is of a calm spirit.

Proverbs 17:27