As I write this column, the COVID-19 virus has spread from China to much of the world including the United States. This virus is now a true pandemic affecting nearly every country.

So, what should our response as Christians be? How do we look at something like COVID-19 which has the potential to afflict so many people and to negatively impact the economies of the world?

Spiritually we have two choices — faith or fear. Both are opposite sides of the same coin called belief. Faith is the unwavering belief in the goodness of God; that He will take care of us no matter what kind of circumstances we go through. Fear is the opposite of faith. It is a lack of belief in God’s goodness. In other words, we don’t trust Him or His ability to take care of us.

Faith is like a plant and a muscle. It can be grown, and it needs to be exercised. Faith grows in the context of an ongoing and deepening relationship with God. It is exercised in the midst of trials. Every trial we go through gives us the opportunity to grow in and exercise faith or to give into fear. It really is our choice.

COVID-19 presents an interesting challenge to our faith because it seems so menacing. This was the case with the giant Goliath (1 Sam 17). The whole nation of Israel was terrified of him. But David was not. His faith was developed as a boy fighting lions and bears while tending sheep. He exercised this faith and defeated Goliath with nothing but a slingshot.

The source and fruit of our faith is clearly portrayed in Psalm 112:1, 6-8 (The Living Bible):

1 Praise the Lord! For all who fear God and trust in him are blessed beyond expression. Yes, happy is the man who delights in doing his commands.

6 Such a man will not be overthrown by evil circumstances. God’s constant care of him will make a deep impression on all who see it. 7 He does not fear bad news, nor live in dread of what may happen. For he is settled in his mind that Jehovah will take care of him. 8 That is why he is not afraid but can calmly face his foes.

So, in the face of this COVID-19 “giant” which will you choose — faith or fear?

Jim Kubiak is interim senior pastor at Harvest Valley Worship Center, a refuge for healing and a launchpad for transformation. He can be reached at hvwc.com.