“Where to Run for Help” - Sandra Fischer

The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe. Proverbs 18:10 NASB

Whenever fear or worry strikes, our minds race with questions. We tend to search for thoughts that give us a sense of safety and security. Recalling words of hymns is one place to go. “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms” is a place of safe thoughts, particularly to questions in the third verse, “What have I to dread, what have I to fear?” The answer? Nothing, if I’m leaning on God’s arms. 

Another song for anxious times is: “Take it to the LORD in Prayer”, especially the verse that asks, “Are we weak and heavy-laden, cumbered with a load of care?” and one that begs, “Is there trouble anywhere?” The answer—prayer.

Indeed, the best place to run when circumstances overwhelm us is to the LORD himself and his Word. Isaiah tells us: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10 NIV)

Jesus tells us: “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’. . . But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:31a-34) NIV

God’s Word provides eternal, spiritual food: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but on every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4 NASB)

Let’s run to the LORD in prayer and find sustenance in His faithful Word.

Father God, thank you for being our refuge and strength at all times. 

Sandra is a FaithWriters Platinum member, author of “Seasons in the Garden.” Contact

“Two Spreading Viruses” - by Sandra Fischer

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

A disabling, contagious virus is spreading throughout the world, causing great harm to people. Its name is “anxiety”, exhibited by fear and panic. It’s a “companion” of the coronavirus that is causing illness and death in its wake. As Christians, we should do what we can to protect ourselves against the threat of both.

Paul exhorts us in his Philippian letter to be anxious about nothing, and there are hundreds of scriptures admonishing us to “fear not.” This does not mean we should mindlessly dismiss threats to our safety or wellbeing. In fact, the Greek word “merimnah” is translated two ways in the New Testament—one negatively, another positively. It means “worry” or “anxiety” when used in a negative sense, as when Jesus says, “Do not ‘worry’ about your life. . .” (Matthew 6:25 NKJV) When used in a positive way, it is translated as “concern” in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, ". . . there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal ‘concern’ (merimnah) for each other.” (1 Corinthians 12:25 NIV)

Worry or anxiety dwells on “what ifs” or future unknowns, while concern conveys positive aspects, focusing on a problem in a beneficial way. We should take reasoned measures to protect ourselves from exposure to a threatening viral disease, and if we trust God for things beyond our control, we will protect ourselves from the “anxiety” virus, too. Prayer is essential in dealing with both.

Father, help us deal with these viruses.

Sandra is a FaithWriters Platinum member, author of “Seasons in the Garden.” Contact