How to turn fear into faith during the pandemic
Coronavirus has turned the world upside down. Two or three months ago, I bet you didn't hear much about the coronavirus. I did not. The word pandemic wasn't even on the horizon. A lot has changed in the past months, weeks and even days.
But you, and others like you, are trying to get sound professional advice, especially when it's not easy. You are doing your best to wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, wear a face mask, and stand two meters away from others. You're even repairing yourself on the spot.
Yet we know there is more to surviving a pandemic than simply avoiding infection. Germs aren't the only contagion that has spread in a viral epidemic. So does fear. Fear can be even more virulent than the coronavirus itself. And almost as damaging.
What do you do when fear takes over?
That's a good question. As a clergy coach, I mentor other church leaders through the creation of a culture of renewal, a leadership program that I have developed. I also spend a lot of time mentoring fellow addicts and alcoholics during recovery. Although these are two very different groups of people, I have learned from both of them how to turn fear into faith.
Let's take a look at two ways fear can steal your faith; and two powerful ways to claim peace. Even in the midst of a pandemic.
How fear steals your faith
It used to be that the moment I felt the thrills of fear, I abandoned God and abandoned myself. I would like to escape everything and run (fear). I ran to drugs, alcohol and lots of food. You name it, I did. The problem is that running away hasn't solved anything. After I finished running, I still had the fear, as well as the side effects of overdoing it.
My recovering brothers and sisters have taught me that fear is normal. It is also normal to want to escape.
But even though fear is a natural part of being human, basking in it prevents you from receiving all the goodness that life has waiting for you. Because fear disrupts the ability to embrace the future.
More than 30 years in addiction recovery and decades in the ministry have taught me that fear isn't forever. If I don't hurt myself, if I stay close to God, that too will pass.
How to deal with the fear in the meantime?
Right now, your pastor, priest, rabbi, imam, meditation teacher, and other spiritual leaders are listening, praying, studying the Bible, music, yoga and meditation live stream. The company of those you know, even from a distance, will help you understand that all is not lost. Together, you will make it.
If you don't have a regular spiritual community, this is a great time to get in touch. It has never been easier to try a new group or a new practice. Not only that, spirituality is good for the immune system.
Renew FEAR and reclaim your faith
Put fear on his side and he'll reveal ways to reclaim your faith. When I get stuck in fear, it simply means that I am forgetting that everything is fine. Fear has an extraordinary ability to drag me into a terrible imaginary future, where everything turns out terrible. When that happens, I remember what my mentor told me: "Stay where your feet are." In other words, don't go into the future, stay in the present moment.
If the present moment is very difficult, I call a friend, cuddle my dog and get a devotional book. When I do, I realize that the reason everything is fine is because I'm not alone. God is with me.
It took a while, but I found that I can really overcome fear. I can face everything and get up. God will never leave me and will never abandon me. When I remember, I don't have to take alcohol, drugs or mega portions of food. God has shown me that I can handle what is in front of me.
We all feel lonely or scared from time to time. But these difficult feelings are magnified at uncertain times like these. However, if you feel you need more of the tips above, don't wait. Please contact and ask for further help. Call your priest, minister, rabbi or friend in the local faith. Don't hesitate to contact a hotline for anxiety, mental health, or suicide. They are there to help you. Just like God is.