Facing Uncertain Times with Certainty
To say these are uncertain times is a gross understatement as the nation and, for that matter, the world deal with the global Covid-19 pandemic. We've all been impacted, in some way, whether it’s by the craziness of the Costco runs (literally), flight cancellations, school campus, stores and restaurant closures or even sports events going dark. Or, even worse. And, yet how are we to respond with certainty to the uncertain times we are facing today? Or the times that will strike unexpectedly that will surely face us at some point in our future?
Romans 12:2 says, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." I find it comforting to renew my mind with the truth of God's word, don't you?
Take a look at the verses below. Mediate on them. Read them with your family, friends and even neighbors. Pray through these verses and discuss how you might be able to put them in to practice this week. Ask God to help you and your family grow through this time and not just survive it. I hope, as you do this, God’s word will bring a sense of calm, clarity and certainty to you, as well as, perhaps conviction to what God may be calling you to do during this time of global crisis.
Hebrews 4:16. See this as an opportunity to lovingly and compassionately help others, including your kids, put their confidence in God more.
Matthew 11:28-30, Romans 8:28, John 14:1. Help people, young and older, by your good and godly example, trust Christ more than the circumstances around them.
Matthew 6:27. Remind those God puts in your path, to not worry... easier said than done, at times, however, regardless of our feelings, the fact remains, God is Sovereign and fully in control.
Philippians 4:6-7, 1 John 5:14. Pray more, panic less.
James 1:2-4. Remain faithful and steadfast to the work of God. People all around you, including our kids, need to see the opportunity to do God's work through this time.
Hebrews 10:25. Encourage your kids and others to continue connecting with people at church, by whatever means possible. In times of uncertainty and difficulty, our tendency may be to retreat and even isolate. But, God has created us to be in relationship and fellowship with other Christians. Resist the temptation to withdraw and distance yourself completely from social interaction.
I am confident God has a bigger plan beyond our present and personal discomfort, inconvenience and even struggle. A plan that has to do with God and his Kingdom. As we focus on what opportunities are now before us, let us look for ways to share our confidence in God and his word with others.
Our mission field is before us; at every store, market, gas station, and neighborhood and even within our own home with our family. We've got work to do. Now is the time we can help people see their need for God even more and put their full trust in Christ today. Let's make the most of this time to continue to grow closer to God and help others do the same and face today with certainty together.
