2020 has been tough on a lot of people.
“Our new normal” includes daily conversations about things we never used to discuss. Fear seems to be a factor in most discussions. Each of us has a very distinct opinion, often completely opposite of those we love. Distrust of everyone we meet has sprung paranoia on us like the springing of a steel trap. Each week brings new reports of how bad things are. The mandated ways we are to live in this new normal change almost daily. The so called experts can’t even seem to agree. Our addiction to news via social media and watching the news have fueled anxiety and fear, ruined relationships and caused suicide and depression rates to skyrocket.
As I have watched the effects of these changes on my family and friends, my mind has been drawn to the truth of scripture. While it may sound cliche, it has been the soft landing place my weary heart has been craving.
I still check into my social media accounts off and on but have found my spirit is quieter when I lessen my time spent there. Big surprise to me – I found I can actually survive without facebook, instagram and snapchat on my phone, instead limiting myself to checking when on my laptop.
Just prior to Covid’s infamous start, I had spent yet another weekend in the hospital . My sweet friend Mary came to pray with me and shared some of her handwritten scripture cards with me. I was so blessed by the very practical truths she shared with me straight from the pages of the Bible that I began to ask God to awaken my hunger for his word.
He has done just that.
As worry has increased and uncertainty about how tomorrow, the next week, month or year may end up, I have found myself turning repeatedly to God for his comfort and truth. It has taken me being intentional about getting into his word, that has brought the rewards of peace and calm in a time of overwhelming stress and anxiety.
I am going to share just a few precious promises that have become dear to my soul and hope you will share some back!
Matthew 11:28 – Come unto me all who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest.
Psalm 92:12 – The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.
Psalm 4:8 – I will both lay me down in peace and sleep; For you alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety.
Psalm 56:3 – What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
Psalm 29:11 – The Lord will give strength to his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace.
I obviously love the Psalms! David, the author, shows over and over how human he was and how God was his only hope despite numerous too big for man situations.
What are your go-to scriptures for combatting worry and fear? Share them in the comments or send me a message. Let’s be intentional about encouraging one another in these dark times!