For almost a year now, we have found ourselves in the middle of a global pandemic. It can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming, and that’s without adding in things we see or read in the news every day.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious during this time, please know you’re not alone. Circumstances are tough, but we’re pivoting and adapting as best we can. Celebrate those small victories when you start to feel stressed.
We know this has been a tough season, and it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The good news is, as Christians, we are never hopeless. Our hope is in Christ rather than in the things of this world, so remember to cling to that truth.
I would also love to share a few verses with you that have helped me through this season:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27
I think we can all agree that our hearts have been troubled a time or two in the last year. There is a lot of sadness and hardship in the world right now, but remember that there is always hope in Christ. When you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders, bring it to the Father. He wants to help you carry that burden and remind you that you’re not alone.
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
This verse pretty much speaks for itself, but what a wonderful reminder it is to us during this time! We can see tribulation almost everywhere we turn, and that can be scary and heartbreaking. But that’s not the end of the story. Jesus has already come to save us, and nothing that happens on this earth is taking Him by surprise. In the midst of the most uncertainty many of us has ever faced, I take great comfort in knowing that He has sent the Holy Spirit who continues to bring us peace, joy, and love.
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
This has been my favorite Bible verse for as long as I can remember. As a parent, I often feel like I have to have everything together. I have to put on my brave face so my kids know that everything is fine (even when it’s not). This verse reminds me that it’s okay to not have it all together. It’s okay to need someone to comfort me and tell me that things will be all right. I can curl up and feel safe in God’s righteous right hand and know that we’ll eventually get to the other side.
I hope you find peace and strength from these verses (or others) as you pray. I hope you know you’re not alone if things feel difficult right now. And, most of all, I hope you know that we’re going to get through this. I don’t know when or how or what it will look like, but God has a plan. Let’s trust it.
Written by Maegan Dockery, marketing manager at the WMU Foundation.