James 1:2-4 NLT
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
The waiting is the hardest part.
I’m writing this during one of the most challenging times that I have ever faced. The coronavirus, a pandemic that I have never experienced in my 53 years of living, is apparently ravaging through the world.
Other than the economic effects of this virus, we are just starting to get reports of the illness’s physical effects.
And as of this writing, I don’t personally know anyone who has become sick from this virus; praise God!
But if I am honest, my emotions are on a roller coaster ride.
I know that God is in control and my faith is that He is doing His work.
We are affected by the ”social distancing” that our government is calling us to do. Our church is meeting using computer platforms like Zoom and YouTube. (Now in person, praise the Lord)
As we move through this trial, I am challenged to turn more of my security over to God, and I am starting to experience a new level of peace with this.
Psalm 27:14 NLT
Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.
It has certainly caused me to live in tighter time frames. I am living more moment to moment and day today. My plans seem to be on a holding pattern, and my plans are more focused on strengthening those with whom I can be in contact.
I am working on trying to reach out to those who I can no longer be around physically, my Lifegroup, the people whom I used to talk to at church.
I am reaching out to my relatives who live further away, and I am speaking more frequently to my kids.
The hardest part is waiting.
I want things to get back to normal, but God does not. He wants us to change. He wants us to start focusing more on the needs of those around us over our own.
God doesn’t waste opportunities. He will use this to make us stronger and more prepared witnesses.
Romans 8:28 NLT
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Heavenly Father, I pray for comfort and encouragement.
I know that You are in control. I pray that You continue to help me to stay focused on Your will for my life.
Even though the world around us is changing in dramatic ways, You remain faithful and just.
Dear God, help me remain hopeful and give me the strength, courage, and willingness to keep You centered in my heart.
In the name of Jesus Christ , I pray in Your Holy Name, Amen l!! 🙏❤️
