The latest research indicates that COVID-19 will be reoccurring in cold weather along with flu season. The future and how we will cope with all the uncertainty is causing trauma in people of all ages. This is, without a doubt, a time of uncertainty. We are adjusting to new norms, long periods of isolation, the loss of loved ones, the loss of jobs, and grief over canceled trips, weddings and time with loved ones.
How are you coping? Scripture tells us In Mathew 6:34: “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Yet we have evolved into a culture that strives to be in control of the future. We set goals, and value accomplishments in our children and ourselves. We seek worth through what our culture recognizes as success. In contrast, as Christians, we know that nothing in this world happens without God’s knowledge and His purpose. Could it be that God is using this pandemic? Is COVID-19 an opportunity for you to reexamine your busy life and rediscover your values, priorities and purposefulness?
How will you adjust and get centered? For many it has become a time to rediscover their relationship with God, family and friends. It has given them time to contemplate unfulfilled dreams, learn a new language, take online courses to get the degree and job that best fits with their God given talents. Examples abound of individuals exercising their creativity in music, videos and virtual communication to connect with others to share thoughts, feelings, laughter and prayer. Medical providers, suppliers and truck drivers and many others are using their skills to serve. Those workers are God’s gift to us, providing what we need, as He promises.
However, an unknown future, financial insecurity and daily stress have an affect on the physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing of many. If you or a loved one is continuing to get stressed, emotional, or anxious, you may be giving in to self-reliance and fear. Here are some steps to take to avoid the anxiety that COVID-19 may be causing and help you get centered.
- Live life purposefully one day at a time. Oftentimes, we ask other people for guidance instead of going to God. Proverbs 3:7-8 states “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.” Therefore, our first response should be to seek understanding from Him about what’s happening in our life. This is why time with the Lord in His Word and prayer is top priority. When we spend time with Him, we discover His purposes and come away emotionally settled.
- Begin each day with praising God for at least ten things for which you are thankful. Gratitude releases serotonin from the brain, creating a calm and uplifting mood. Thank God for your magnificent brain that He created!
Now is the time to humble yourself. Humility is not thinking of yourself as much as it is thinking of others. Set goals for acts of kindness, compassion and forgiveness. Everyone is affected by this virus. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32
- Take care of body, mind and spirit. Develop a new routine that includes spiritual as well as physical exercise and nourishment. Yoga, relaxing music and meditation are some ways to calm, increase self awareness and clarify what consumes your mind. Often we are ruminating over situations and lost in things that we can not control. Instead, bring your troubles to Him. Seek from Him your purposefulness and He will guide your steps. Proverbs 3:5 says: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
- Remember God is all powerful and all present. He has promised to lead us through the valley of depression, fear, and worry. He will fulfill His purpose for our life. Read Psalm 23:6 for comfort and strength: “Surely Your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”
- We may not always see immediate results from our present trials and suffering, but we can always trust that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28. The world may be sitting in fear, isolation, and anxiety, but we don’t have to. We can rest in the fact that God is sovereignly reigning over our lives. Allow these times to humble you, to bring you to action, and to trust and draw near to God. “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16
Each person’s anxiety is complex and unique. Christian counselors are skilled in helping you discover God’s purpose for your life. At Royal Palm Christian Counseling, we’re here for you. Schedule time for a session in person. We also offer video and tele-counseling for adults, children, and couples. Contact us today at 239-939-0707.
Colleen Shue M. Ed In Counseling,
Certified in Biblical Counseling and
Brain Health Coaching