Father, fear seems to be gripping our nation, not just because of the political turmoil and violence, but also because of a virus that appears to be spreading exponentially.  Scripture identifies the source of fear as spiritual (2 Timothy 1:7), and that very well could be the source of this virus.  I don’t know.  I do know that your Word reminds us that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12).

In writing to Timothy, Paul counseled him, “…God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”  Those who have not received the indwelling Holy Spirit through accepting Jesus as their Lord and Savior, and anyone not living in the fullness of the Spirit and walking “in step” (Galatians 5:25) with Him are susceptible to the lies of the enemy and crippling fear. 

Jesus, fear is a characteristic of time’s last days—the Bible records a number of events that will happen before you return for your bride, and this: “…people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world” (Luke 21:26).  My prayer is, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus!”  Yet, the love in your heart longs to set free the captives of fear.  And this is my prayer.  Let your Spirit come in the same power—even stronger! —than He did on the day of Pentecost when a rag-tag group of believers gathered together in an upper room.  Let courage bubble up like an overflowing fountain in the hearts and minds of believers so that we will be living testimonies of the hope that dwells within us.

Remind us that we are in a fierce battle, Lord.  Holy Spirit, remind us to take every thought captive to obey Christ.  Let your people be light, exhibiting your power, your love, and the wisdom of God to others.  In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.