Carrying On in Chaotic Times

While the phrase “Keep Calm and Carry On” has had a resurgence in popularity in recent years, it began as a governmental motivational poster seeking to strengthen the morale of the British people in preparation for the difficulties of impending World War II. But the message is one that is deeply rooted in Scripture. Throughout the Bible, God reminds his people to be strong and courageous, to be at peace in times of trouble, and to be calm in him and in the work of his mighty and faithful hands. (Joshua 1:9; John 14:27; & Romans 8:28, as well as many, many other passages).

In these chaotic times, followers of Christ do well to remember the promises of His Word and the testimony of his faithfulness. Because of this, we (more than any others) carry on in life and faith as beacons of true hope and life. We can remain calm in the storms of chaos because we know the One who holds the future and the present. 

Most certainly, we follow the wisdom of good health and hygiene and exercise good citizenship in doing our part to stymie the spread of the virus. But we also exercise our faith through prayer, peace, kindness, and generosity. We check on our neighbors and the vulnerable God has put in our path and our community. We share, both our faith and our resources, to meet the needs we encounter. An important part of this is the continuing needs of our church and its ministries as we continue to give faithfully and encourage others to do so, remembering that the ministry and needs of the church continue as well. Click here for a resource on online giving platforms.

In 2018, my home community of Stephenville experienced a severe ice storm that ravaged the trees and homes of our town and county. Because of the weather, we missed two worship services in a matter of weeks. Our ministry opportunities, however, increased as we housed multiple chainsaw crews from Texas Baptist Men for almost a month. Through the continued faithful and sacrificial giving of our congregation, we were able to meet our regular needs and the additional ministry opportunities God had put in front of us. This fellowship was a true testimony to “Keeping Calm and Carrying On,” because our God is an awesome God, further evidenced by the many decisions for Christ that occurred during this time.

I have thought a great deal about my former church this week (Valley Grove Baptist Church in Stephenville). Their example of faithfulness in doing and giving in difficult times spurs me on to do likewise in today’s trying and tumultuous days. But this testimony is not just that of a single church—it’s the testimony of Texas Baptists! And I am confident that Texas Baptists will meet this season’s trial with peace and generosity yet again.