Finding Confidence in the Lord

Since the news of the corona virus has called for county-wide shutdowns and for everyone to stay indoors, I have begun to feel the effects of 'cabin-fever'. So, I have hiked 10 miles, baked a dozen chocolate-chip cookies, cooked one pot of homemade chili, and began to study the conversion of the metric system. Yes, the need to stay active both physically and mentally during these weeks of self-quarantine has called for creativity and intentionality. Still, keeping busy to stave off boredom and to just "stay out of the refrigerator", as I combat feelings of anxiety while experiencing empty store shelves, and hearing of fake vaccines, has truly become wearisome.

How does this speak to shame and rejection? I take heart in His promise to neither leave me nor forsake me. (Heb. 13:5)

The Word says to, "Be strong and of good courage" (Josh. 1:18). So today, I take comfort in the Lord;
and although I do not know when I will return to work and the end of this pandemic is no where in sight, my peace and confidence is in Him.

May you too find rest and a space of grace today and in the days and weeks to come.

My flesh and heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
(Ps. 73:26)

Fear versus Faith

The threat of coronavirus, shortages of supplies in the marketplace, lacking healthcare,  unemployment, our US presidential candidates battling it out, and road rage, There’s a lot in our news headlines that let us know- on a 24 hour basis - there’s much at stake.

However, panics and pandemics are not new to mankind. Jesus even spoke about trouble to come when He was here on earth. In Mark 13:7, Jesus said to his disciples,“But when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be troubled; for such things must happen, but the end is not yet.”  He went on to say, “Countries will fight each other; kingdoms will attack one another. There will be earthquakes everywhere, and there will be famines. These things are like the first pains of childbirth” (Mark‬ ‭13:8‬).

Therefore, we have a choice; with so much to be concerned about, we may choose to be in fear or walk in faith. The Lord said through the prophet Isaiah, ”Fear not 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 (Isa. 54:10).

So, with this great promise and assurance, how can we fret, hoard supplies and speak of impending doom?  In these last days we need to come together as Brethren and not fear one another lest we “ catch something” or “lose something”. If God is for us then who or what can be against us?

For it is written, “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.

Father, thank You that there is no fear in You, but peace and provision. You are Jehovah Jireh, our provider. In Jesus name, amen.