Stop Being Paranoid

“God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

One thing that’s certainly changed since the advent of social media and “instant news” is the speed at which information travels. The “news cycle,” the idea that a central issue or event is at the forefront for a given time, has gotten shorter and shorter. Two decades ago we would all be on the same subject as a nation for a few weeks. Today we’re lucky if we get a few hours. Then the next thing happens and Twitter and Facebook explode.

We live in a fast-paced time, but do we live in a historically important time? Some would say yes, but if that were true, then the issues of the day would last—well, more than a day. The pace of news, of life in general, has made many people fearful. A 2015 poll shows that we are more fearful than ever before - of terrorism, leaders’ decisions, disease, crime - you name it.

That fear is not of God. 2 Timothy tells us that God did not give us a spirit of fear, but rather of sound mind. When you are tempted to be fearful of events, political happenings, or world chaos, remember to Whom you belong. Christ-followers are the children of the God of the universe, Whose very existence is holding the world together moment by moment, breath by breath. If we believe and serve this God, then we have no reason to be afraid. God knows what is happening and what is going to happen. It is all under His wise and sovereign power.

So be of sound mind. When events happen, look for ways you can help. Most of the time this begins with prayer. Don’t be tempted to fly off the handle at today’s Tweets. Instead, look at the bigger picture. Ask yourself, “How may God be working through this situation?” Look for ways to glorify God with your thoughts, your prayers, and your actions. And look for ways to love others and opportunities to share the Gospel. For God has not given you a spirit of fear.

God, remind me today that I have nothing to be afraid of. I trust You, and I know You hold the world together, and have my best interest at heart. Help me to see the day’s news as a potential avenue where I can serve You or serve others in Your name. Help me to be of sound mind, trusting You for the day, and showing kindness, love, and concern for others. In Jesus’ name, amen.