As the chaos of the global pandemic has produced so many far-reaching consequences. While it is our personal responsibility to do all we can to remain safe by following the advice of medical experts, it rests within the sovereignty of God and His omniscience to determine when all of this will be over. In the meantime, we can invite Him into our fears and deepest concerns to provide an unshakable peace into our hearts.
Only God can give us stability amidst the ever-shifting sands of our ever-challenging circumstances!
With that in mind, I would like to offer 7 affirmations to live by as we continue to be confronted by COVID-19.
1. I will be thankful.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 – Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
Giving thanks allows us to keep the blessings that we have at the forefront of our minds. This practice is especially grounding when we are going through difficult circumstances.
2. I will make the choice to rejoice.
Psalm 118:24 – This is the day that the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
More time being at home gives us greater opportunities to connect with God and our families, as we engage in activities that are meaningful to us.
3. I will nourish my spirit.
Philippians 4:8 – … Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
Listen to inspiring music, read scripture, get out in nature, go for a walk, watch uplifting programming – engage in activities that encourage your heart and edify your soul.
4. I will commit to continuing to communicate with God.
1 John 5:14 – We are confident that God listens to us if we ask for anything that has His approval.
Prayer opens the door to divine intervention. It provides us with a vehicle to enlist God’s presence and protection, even in a pandemic!
5. I will not give way to worry and worst-case scenario thinking.
Matthew 6:26-27 – Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to Him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?
We can redirect our fears and anxieties by inviting God’s presence to be with us as we place our trust in His precious promises.
6. I will explore being a blessing to others.
2 Timothy 1:7 – God didn’t give us a spirit of timidity but a spirit of power, love, and good judgment.
While it is important to take care of ourselves, it is also helpful to remind ourselves that everybody needs somebody sometime. In the midst of overwhelming needs, we can look for creative ways to help others.
7. I will give grace to myself and others.
Matthew 5:9 – Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
In a time of so much animosity and tension, try to sow the seed of peace when you’d otherwise be offended.
As we continue to deal with all the challenges of COVID and quarantine, I pray that you remain safe and secure in the love and care of God.
Submitted in service,
Pastor Eric Hatcher