Overcoming Fear

As the housing and financial crisis deepens the hearts of many are fearful. People are losing their homes, people are losing their retirement. And some are even beginning to attempt to take their own lives. The fear can be paralyzing and overpowering. What do you do?

At times like these it is important to remember the God we talk about during the good times. We go to church every week to hear about the power of God. It is now time to tap into the power in those stories.

Follow Health Principles

Adventists have emphasized the importance of good health, and in stressful times there is an added need to follow the simple rules of health. It is now time to make sure you are drinking the water, eating the fruits and vegtables, and exercising.

Sing Songs

In addition, let us tap into the power of song. I was listening to the story of Mama Debarge on the Tom Joyner Radio Show. She was speaking about the abuse that she had suffered. She aledged that her husband sexually and physically abused her and her children. But how did she make it out of the situation? She said that she taught the children to sing. They sang to make it through the pain and heartache. And then later they became a top singing group by singing songs.

When the American slaves were in the most dehumanizing form of slavery known to humanity they sang. And we still sing those songs called the spirituals. There is something about song that can help you keep your mind when the world is trying to take it from you.

Remember the Sabbath

And finally, Remember the Sabbath. Every Sabbath we have a 24 hour period where we live "as if" our work is done. Here we take time out to become rejuvenated in the power of the one who can make something out of nothing. Here we recognize that we can't do it all and we leave at least one day totally up to God while we place our family, community, and God above all other interests.

As the song says, "I don't know about tomorrow...but I know who holds my hand."