Over the course of recent days, the coronavirus is responsible for some significant changes in much of our world. News reports have changed by the hour, and sometimes by the minute as major events have been canceled and states of emergency declared. Churches have wrestled with decisions about whether or not to cancel services.

Daily routines for many people have been impacted by the coronavirus in one way or another. Only our God knows what the future holds for us in these unprecedented and uncertain times.

Christ followers are reminded in 2 Timothy 1:7 that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (NKJV). This is a call to remember that we are to live by confident faith in God instead of fear during these times of uncertainty.

Along with other organizations, the executive leadership of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina recognized the wisdom of making some significant decisions for the safety of our staff, their family members and many others.

By necessity, we have canceled some upcoming events and continue to evaluate others. We also made a decision to close the state convention office building in Cary to the general public through the end of March even though your convention staff will maintain their regular work schedules during this time. A few staff will work in their assigned office, while others will be able to work remotely.

I assure North Carolina Baptists that whether we are working in the Baptist Building, a remote location or from home, we are available and equipped to respond to your phone calls and emails. Use the regular phone numbers, email addresses or convention website to contact any staff member. Our web address is ncbaptist.org.

Let’s pray that our God would stem the rapid spread of the coronavirus. Pray for those who have been impacted by it. Pray for wisdom for our state, local, national and global leaders.

May we also remember to love others and extend grace to them. Reach out to help meet a need in someone’s life as you demonstrate Christ’s power working through you.

Pray for those in your sphere of influence who need to experience a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ and discover the eternal hope that only He can provide. Look for opportunities to spread the love of Christ and share the gospel with others in the days ahead.