In the past few months, the world’s top focus has been on the new coronavirus (COVID-19) and the effects it’s having on everything and everyone. Many schools, organizations and public places have implemented new policies surrounding the spread of this disease; and events and travel plans have also been postponed, canceled or modified because of it.
Fear has also been growing worldwide. Face masks and hand sanitizers are now hard to find in many areas, and some are even exploiting the pockets of others by selling their supplies to the highest bidder. Today, it is COVID-19, tomorrow it will be another disease or a natural disaster or something catastrophic. What does the Bible have to say about fear?
My default response to fear is this verse: For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind —2 Timothy 1:7. Fear is not from God. He doesn’t want us to live crippled by dread and worry, but to live in the spirit of power, love and a sound mind. If watching the news makes you fearful, or using public transportation leaves you cowering in fear, there are professional individuals and medical personnel you can speak to for help, but The Bible also has many encouraging verses as well. Here are a few:
After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.– Genesis 15:1
And the LORD appeared unto him the same night, and said, I am the God of Abraham thy father: fear not, for I am with thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy seed for my servant Abraham’s sake. — Genesis 26:24
Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. — Joshua 1:9
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.— Psalm 23:4
For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. –Isaiah 41:13
But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. — Isaiah 43:1
Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice: for the LORD will do great things.— Joel 2:21
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.— Matt 11:28
For they all saw Him, and were troubled. And immediately He talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. — Mark 6:50
But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. — Luke 12:7
Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.— Luke 12:32
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.— John 14:27
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There is peace, comfort and rest in Christ. If you are sick (with the COVID-19 or any virus/bacteria), learn and follow the necessary protocols for your illness. If you are troubled, fearful, depressed or anxious, seek help and remember The Holy Bible is filled with encouragement for these situations. He warned us of increasing troubles in the world (Matthew 24) but He also gave us the tools to empower ourselves physically, emotionally and spiritually.
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.— John 16:33
For information on the coronavirus (COVID-19) visit
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Coronavirus Page
- The World Health Organization (WHO) Coronavirus Page
- Your Local State/Government Health Information Page