We see daily news reports of increased infections worldwide from the coronavirus.  Financial markets gyrate but move sharply lower.  For most of us, not much has changed . . . yet.

Scripture is clear that we cannot predict the future. “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow.” (James 4:14, NIV) Many want to see into the future in order to take the right steps for success. However, the future is not predictable. We are better prepared when we understand the changes that have already occurred and act on those changes.

Headlines around the world raise fear about the impact of the coronavirus. Cruise ships quarantined thousands on board, factories closed in China and millions of people are isolated in lockdown. We see emergency flights of returning American citizens arriving and immediately placed into quarantine.  Additionally, there is a major economic risk with the outbreak.

Scripture gives us a balance to consider. King Solomon wrote, “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” (Proverbs 22:3, NIV) and he also wrote, “The sluggard says, ‘There's a lion outside! I'll be killed in the public square!’” (Proverbs 22:13, NIV) We need to keep an appropriate balance between acting with prudent actions or responding to fear.

News is full of stories about hundreds of millions of dollars of legal settlements between state and local governments against drug manufacturing companies. The allegation has been that these drug companies knowingly failed to disclose the full addictive nature of the pain medicine they sold. 

A major concern I have with these payments for alleged drug addiction actions by manufacturers is that the money does not go to those who were harmed. The payments go to government units which are free to use these funds anyway they wish. 

Walmart, known for a diversity of merchandise at low cost, is entering the health care field in a significant way. In a few select stores a wide variety of health care products such as dental and medical services will be available. Here’s a list of some services:

Primary care
Dental
Counseling
Labs and X-ray
Health screening
Optometry
Hearing
Fitness and nutrition
Health insurance education and enrollment

Former President Jimmy Carter was recently in the news. At age 95, he had surgery to relieve pressure from his brain after several recent falls. First reports indicate the surgery went well.

Since leaving the White House, the former president has taught Sunday School on a regular basis.  Even now, despite his weakened health, he still schedules himself for teaching twice a month. At 95, most of us wouldn’t be so ambitious.

Additionally, Jimmy Carter has been very committed to the work of Habitat for Humanity. When physically able, he still goes to project sites to swing a hammer, lend his name, and encourage volunteers.