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.
This thing we’re experiencing won’t last forever. It won’t. There will come a time when we’ll move among each other again and re-engage our tasks and responsibilities. The way we re-enter our lives will likely be different, but this present state is temporary. We will be around people again. We’ll go to church, work, restaurants, parks, and movie theaters again. So, now is the time to do the things we were simply too busy, distracted, tired, or lazy to do before. We need to learn the lessons that have been waiting for us.
When we have nothing but time on our hands we can think about the kinds of decisions we typically make, like the ones we made a month ago, for instance. A time of isolation allows us to think about how we spend money, manage relationships, talk to and about ourselves, approach and think about our jobs, ways to consider our neighbors and their needs, and the state of our spiritual lives.
We’ve been given time to face and deal with the issues that matter. Think about it. We’re living at a pivotal time in the history of mankind. No matter what happens, this time of isolation, disease, and uncertainty will be recorded and referred to over-and-over again. Shouldn’t we, then prepare to develop the narrative? Isn’t this a time to hold fast to what we know and believe? The time is ripe to draw close to God, build our spiritual stamina, reconsider our habits and preferences, and change the way we go about doing what we do.
God promises to work all of what we’re experiencing for good, but He didn’t promise that we wouldn’t have to work at it. This issue is not about us, but it’s actually for us. God has allowed an orchestration of events toward a particular, good purpose. We can use scripture to help us get through it. Let’s get back to basics and remain on course.
We know that:
- What’s happening is not stumping God. Jeremiah 32:27. I am the Lord, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me?
- God loves us. Romans 5:8. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
- We have God’s favor. Psalm 5:12. For you bless the godly, O Lord, surrounding them with your shield of love.
- God hears our prayers. 1 Peter 3:12a. The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers.
- God will take care of us. Isaiah 46:4. I will be your God throughout your lifetime– until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you.
- We will have what we need. Philippians 4:19 (ESV). And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
- God will keep us in our right minds. Isaiah 26:3. You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, whose thoughts are fixed on you.
- We don’t have to be afraid. Isaiah 41:10. Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am you God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.
- God can handle our load. Psalm 55:22. Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.
- We will become stronger. 2 Corinthians 12:10. Since I know it is all for Christ’s good, I am content with my weaknesses and with insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
No one but God knows why this is happening or how long this will last, but Christians know that God is intentional and is paying attention. We need Him like never before. These challenges we face can become purifying agents that draw us into deeper levels of relationship with Him. As we reflect on His Word, we understand Him better- that’s good. When we encourage our friends and family members, we become encouraged ourselves-that’s good. As we learn to participate in worship outside of church walls and realize that we can build intimacy with our Savior 1:1- that’s good. When we send friends messages and receive encouragement in return- that’s good.
The quality of our lives after this event in history will depend on what we choose to do while we’re in isolation. And, because God says there will be good from and through this, we can rest on His promises. These things we’re going through will work together and will be all good.
Prayer
Lord, Thank you for the stillness of the day that allows us to pay attention to the important matters of life. We’re acutely aware that we have no control over our today’s or tomorrow’s. This time you’ve given us is valuable and we don’t want to waste it. Help us to remember your promises and to be encouraged with knowing that all of what’s happening has great benefit.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen
Live well,
Michele