Since COVID-19 first made headlines last December, how we gather and communicate with others has drastically changed.
But social distancing doesn’t have to mean distance from the people and things that bring joy.
Despite the adjustments we’ve all had to make, there’s also one constant: God. And He could be using current events to get your attention.
The uncertainty of today is like no other, but you can have a certain peace through it all. Here are three ways:
Remember What the Bible Says
Throughout the Bible, God reminds us of His sovereignty. Nothing catches Him by surprise.
Colossians 1:16-17 (ESV) says, “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities — all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
It can be comforting to remember God knows all and sees all in this world. He hasn’t forgotten about you, and He wants us to put our trust in Him.
You can seal this assurance by reading the Bible and resting on God’s promises daily.
Spend Your Time Wisely
“Stay Home” orders across the country have many getting creative about how they spend their time. This can be a great chance to rest and restore, but also to be productive.
In many of his sermons, Billy Graham urged people to “redeem the time” not only by using their gifts and talents for good, but also by making the decision to follow Christ before it’s too late.
“You don’t have very much of it,” he once said about time. “The days are evil, life is very brief, the time is urgent. Don’t waste it.”
If we aren’t intentional with our time, it gives opportunity for bad habits or decisions.
Today while there’s greater opportunity, vow to make the most of seemingly extra time. Read more, make memories with family, develop a new skill or hobby. This could even be a ripe time to be a witness.
As Mr. Graham once said: “We could use millions of people marching for Christ all over the world right now, taking love instead of hate to the world, telling the people how to be saved, telling them how they can find forgiveness and newness of life.”
Get Ideas and Encouragement from Others
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, BGEA recently posted discussion questions on its Facebook page to see how others have been managing. Many commented about their families being reunited, prayer life being strengthened, and how they found joy despite all that’s happening.
Be encouraged by what others are doing to make the most of this time:
Q: How are you staying connected to God and church family?
We have church online… through this time I have found it to be wonderful and being more obedient to our Lord, it has put me out of my comfort zone to start a worship group page for us all to sing in one voice and being obedient in what songs He wants me to upload, this was inspired through Revelations 4:8..so I am sad what’s been happening to some people but for me, it’s been a time to Be still and know that He is our God, and be more into everything with our God believing and knowing He has this all in control. — Karanne Battistessa
We have church online and connect group zoom meetings fortnightly. During this time I believe that God is asking His children to focus on our personal relationship with Him, so each day I lean into Him and listen. Each day started with Him is a great day!!! — Marguerite Jones
Just began a Chronological bible reading plan on Bible Gateway app today! — Charles Pensinger
Q: What activities, goals and relationships are you making time for right now?
I’m reading my bible and tuning in to a few people who loved the word for edifying and reproof. — Lineeh Syndall
Ensuring I spend time with the Lord. — Jane Louise Turner
My closest relationship for the moment is the Lord. I am taking more time to study the Bible and read it and share it with neighbours and friends but also with strangers. — Michèle Vanheghen
Q: What is on your prayer list?
We will never forget that our God is merciful and all knowing. His love surpasses our human imagination. He has never left us or forsaken us. My prayer is that we remember his redemption for us and we will not only keep our faith but to grow in faith and love for him.— Kathy LeTourneau
Q: What has kept you hopeful?
Knowing that nothing is impossible with God.— Julie Parks
Thank you Lord for caring me even when I did not believe. Footprints in the sand is one of my favourite poems. I have grown to love and cherish my Heavenly Father and want to shout from the rooftops how much he loves us. — Kathy LeTourneau
Worried about COVID-19?
Contact the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association below.
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