March 13, 2020
Get Prayer Here
We are living now in a time where the certainty of the rhythms of the world are upset. In just a few days many sectors of our ‘normal lives’ have been cancelled, postponed and undone. We cannot say for certain what the future holds, but it is likely that there will be more changes soon. What occupied our thoughts and time and energy a few days ago now is a distant concern.
This can cause great concern. You may be feeling worry and anxiety. You might be afraid: of contracting the Coronavirus, of job security, concerned about your children’s well-being or about the economy. In a crisis such as what we are in, our emotions can be consumed with all of these important things.
There are entities (spiritual and human) that would love to take advantage of your concern. News Rooms and their advertising clients love a good crisis–we tune in more and consume more fearful news. I’m not suggesting that we don’t need to know some news, but now is a time to steward our own well-being and emotional health by turning away from the NEWS and turning towards scripture.
“My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word.”
Psalm 119:28 NIV
Also, remember that the enemy of your soul uses lies and deception to disrupt your spiritual health. He comes to steal your hope, kill your joy and destroy your ability to serve others. Fear is the primary weapon of the enemy. Again, the scriptures redirect us. God is looking for those who would trust him:
“But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.”
Psalms 33:18-22 NIV
Today, I encourage you to immerse yourself in the scriptures. Remember, the unfolding epic of history is God redeeming and restoring all things unto himself–the Jesus follower participates with this good news invading every era, every life and into any and all circumstance. Please open the scriptures and read.
I suggest that you read the whole book of Philippians today (4 chapters). Paul is writing from prison–a terrible circumstance, but notice how he writes with joy and confidence. The whole point of the life of an apprentice of Jesus is: to make Jesus known. Paul lived that to its fullest and in the midst of our worry and fear, this is the point: consume more Jesus so you have more of him to give away.
- Rather than focus on the apparent cause of your fear, focus on the emotion.
- Give that anxiety to the Lord by praying, “Jesus I am feeling _______ and I give you my_________”
- As that feeling comes up again admit it to Jesus again.
- Invite Jesus to be Lord of your emotions.
- Expect that you will have great opportunities to serve others with peace today.
I am praying for all of us. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with prayer requests. We will be praying for you.