Uncertain times can leave us anxiety ridden. We look for someone that we can trust, someone who will speak truth. We look for someone who will tell us how to go forward. These are the times to refocus on God. He is our security. He is our source of wisdom. He asks you and me to commit ourselves and our future into His hands. God does not fail the one who looks to Him. Will you trust Him to lead you forward?
As we find ourselves in this state of social distancing, it’s easy to let fear creep in and overtake our thoughts. Initially, fear was at the forefront, but then we started to see expressions of ‘#InThisTogether,’ ‘social connecting,’ quaranteamed,’ and ‘locked down but not locked up because I look up!’ (even in TV commercials). Every day we see new stories of people making masks for healthcare workers and first responders, delivering food to the needy and to hospitals, cars gathering at hospitals to pray, worship and flash lights in support, and communities coming together to honor teachers and grads.
It’s natural our first response would be fear. Most of us have never experienced a worldwide pandemic, so we had no idea what was about to happen. Many of us are thinking about our families – hoping no one would contract this virus, hoping we had enough food to sustain us, hoping we would get to keep our jobs so we would have financial stability – all of which are legitimate concerns. However, we can work on changing our mindset – not always easy – but it is doable. Here are some things to get started:
- Seek the Lord – He will be our strength through this! – Psalms 34:4 and 27:1
- Think more positive thoughts than negative thoughts … may have to start with one positive thought a day, but consistently add one each day – Philippians 4:8
- Be socially encouraging … think about that meme or rant before posting on social media – Romans 12:2
- Express gratitude … not only in your prayers, but let others know they’re appreciated … a kind word/text/email speaks volumes – 1 Corinthians 1:4
- Surround ourselves with people that will support us – Proverbs 27:17
And then, there’s always this prayer … whether said out loud or softly in your heart …
Lord, in this moment, I give my anxiety to You. I live to exalt You every day, no matter how uncertain the times. You have never – and will never – forsake Your own. So, in full confidence in Your word and Your faithfulness, I trust You to lead me forward. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Blessings,
John Meeuwissen, Lay Leader