The reality of the times we live in today is hard to take in. A global pandemic forces us into isolation, limits our movements, and leaves us with feelings of disappointment of unmet expectations. Those receiving medical care lay in a hospital bed alone. Family members weren’t allowed, in many cases, to be at the birth or death of a loved one. Students missed classes, dances, and graduation celebrations. Families celebrated Passover, Good Friday and the Resurrection without our annual traditions. Images on social media depict grandparents visiting grandchildren at a distance with a sliding glass door between them.
In the midst of crisis, embrace the overwhelming need to rely on God’s power, strength, healing, and comfort.
C.S Lewis said, “But the great thing to remember is that, though our feelings come and go, His love for us does not. It is not wearied by our sins, or our indifference; and, therefore, it is quite relentless in its determination that we shall be cured of those sins, at whatever cost to us, at whatever cost to Him.”
Since the foundation of the world, mankind has struggled with feelings. The Psalmist didn’t dismiss the pain, disappointment, and loss, but instead expressed it all to God. He shared his emotional eruptions in very vulnerable ways as He cried out to God.
Circumstances of life can try to make you feel small and powerless. The reality in many situations is there is nothing you can do physically, but you can adjust your mindset by turning to God and His Word.
1. Look to God; focus on Him
The eyes of the Lord are upon
even the weakest worshipers who love him—
those who wait in hope and expectation
for the strong, steady love of God.
Psalm 33:18 TPT
2. Speak to your soul
Then I will say to my soul,
“Don’t be discouraged; don’t be disturbed,
for I fully expect my Savior-God to break through for me.
Then I’ll have plenty of reasons to praise him all over again.”
Yes, living before his face is my saving grace!
Psalm 43:5 TPT
3. Embrace God’s Word.
I’m lovesick with yearnings for more of your salvation, for my heart is entwined with your word. Psalm 119:81 TPT
You can open the book of Psalms at any time and find words of comfort penned by the David during his darkest nights. Let God’s promises fill you with hope and encourage you in the deliverance by God’s hand. The same relentless love He had for David, He has for you.
4. Pray
When you open your heart’s door and invite God into your situation, you may not see an immediate relief to your circumstance, but your heart receives hope and something begins to change in you.
But you, dear friends, must build up your lives ever more strongly upon the foundation of our holy faith, learning to pray in the power and strength of the Holy Spirit.
Jude 1:20 TLB
5. Ask for help. Invite others to join you in prayer and support
Sometimes it just seems hard to pray. In those moments, call on others to stand in faith with you and pray for you. It’s powerful to hear others petition the Lord on your behalf.
In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.
Ephesians 6:18 MSG
6. Trust God to never leave you
When you experience even the darkest of nights, you can hold to God’s promise to never be alone. He is always with you. His love for you is relentless. He will never let you go.
For God has said, “I will never, never fail you nor forsake you.”
Hebrews 13:5 TLB
