You Will Not Fear

The worldwide shutdown of activity due to the COVID-19 virus has significantly impacted the ministry of HOPE61. We are certainly not alone, as nearly every business, ministry, and individual on the planet has been impacted in major ways. All of our ENGAGE and MULTIPLY trainings around the world have been suspended until at least June 1, and all travel by HOPE61 staff has also been suspended until that time. While the training events and travel have stopped for now, we still have much going on. We continue to build out the new website, work on new translations of the ENGAGE training booklet, connect with our partners around the world, and much more. We thank you for your prayers as we navigate this interesting and difficult time. We are praying for all of our supporters, partners, and all those directly affected by the virus.

Every time I turn on the news, I hear fear, panic, and confusion in relation to what is happening all around the world. While I am firmly committed to following the guidance of our leaders and medical community, I refuse to live in fear. I happily maintain proper social distancing, and our family has been at home for the vast majority of the last two weeks. Practicing the guidelines to “flatten the curve” is a true act of love to those around us who are vulnerable to becoming seriously ill. With that in mind, though, I will not be among the few who are paralyzed by things beyond our control.

Recently, one of our dear HOPE61 trainers in Uganda reminded me of the promises of God in Psalm 91. The theme of shelter and trust in God rings continually through it and provides all of us with great hope. Verses 5–6 capture this thought perfectly: “You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday” (ESV). Not fearing is not the same as acting recklessly or imprudently in the face of trial. We need to be vigilant in the face of this latest threat to our health and safety, but we also have abundant reason to be filled with hope. No matter what happens to us, our friends and family, or the whole world, God is all the shelter and the protection that we need. Continue to stay six feet away from each other, and hold fast to God today! We will make it through this trial together!

By Tom Overton, HOPE61 Global Director