Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not lay up for yourself treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”.

It is expected that financially stable people will spend their earnings not only on the necessities of life like food, clothes, and utilities, but also on family vacations, pampering themselves, and saving for their futures. We often root for them, look at their “vacay” pictures longingly wishing we were them, and end up liking their pictures because we recognize their success. It is important to strive for these successes, but we mustn’t allow these things to make us feel so comfortable thereby forgetting that a time will come when all worldly luxuries will vanish by seen and unforeseen events (e.g. hurricanes, sickness, accidents). Tragedy and death remind us that not only is life fragile but just how ignorant we are to our expiration date on earth. But amongst this changing world only God is constant. That is why we are told not to store treasures here on earth, but to store treasures in Heaven where moth and rust will not destroy it. And, worldly pandemics will not claim it such as the one we are experiencing now.

The virus affects anyone who comes into contact with an infected individual. Everyone is susceptible but children, adults above 60, the elderly, and all those with pre-existing medical conditions (asthma, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes) are at a higher risk; the virus does not discriminate based on economic status, nationality, race, or physical appearance. You are at risk of contracting the virus if you do not take vital precautions such as washing your hands for 20 seconds, coughing into your elbow, and avoid touching your eyes, face, or mouth with your bare hands based on Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

As we watch the world fold into moments of turmoil, social distancing has become the new trend. School doors are closed, and children remain at home away from their friends and teachers—who remain our heroes as they come together to create an online teaching panel where our scholars can continue to learn. Church buildings are locked up directing members to fellowship with one another through other avenues. Businesses are closed causing owners and employees to lose what they spent years building to provide a better future for their families. People flood the grocery stores to hoard snacks, perishable, and non-perishable foods, and surprisingly all the toilet paper!!! Hospitals in most parts of the United States are overcrowded with victims of COVID-19, and possible cases as well. Despite all these things, we know that God is our refuge and strength in the present time of trouble. (Psalm. 46:1)

We need to stop hoarding onto worldly possessions and hold onto the word of God. When the world is locked up, His arms remain open. He waits to embrace and cover us under His wings to provide total security from earthly pestilence. This pandemic reminds us that we need to deepen our faith in Jesus Christ and allow Him to be the center of our lives. He promises to be with us in good and bad times including the Corona virus. He has total control over sickness, fear, and death. As you are socially distancing yourselves from others, remember this is the time to get closer to Jesus Christ. He is immune to all types of diseases. He will be with you when everyone else has isolated themselves from you. He is forever our shied and protector. He is a perfect and true friend.

Here are some great bible verses to hold onto during this crisis, especially if you are a victim of COVID-19:

Isaiah 41:10 – “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.”

Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to give you hope and a future” Jeremiah 29:11

Psalm 27:1 – “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall, I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”

Psalm 34: 17-18 – “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears; He delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

2 Corinthians 12:9 – But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

John 16:33 – I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Psalm 41:2-4 – The Lord protects him and keeps him alive; he is called blessed in the land; you do not give him up to the will of his enemies. The Lord sustains him on his sickbed; in his illness, you restore him to full health. As for me, I said, “O Lord, be gracious to me; heal me, for I have sinned against you!”

Matthew 21:22 – And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”