We’ve all experienced a “new normal” in 2020. Setting up a home office was my first step in becoming a work-from-home employee. I always thought I’d love it, but it was honestly quite an adjustment! Listening to the news made me anxious about leaving home, so I felt trapped in the very place I love so much. Even a simple walk around the block was a new experience; neighbors were wearing masks and gloves and distancing themselves. Conversations were taking place from six feet apart and the topic never changed – how will we survive the COVID?
The Bible is full of stories of people who experienced a “new normal”. Some of them like Abraham, Moses, and Ruth leaned on God for help, and while the road wasn’t easy, they experienced abundant blessings. Others like Adam & Eve, the wandering Israelites, and Jonah leaned upon their own strength and failed miserably.
Throughout my life, I’ve experienced several “new normal” times – leaving home for college, getting married, having children, going through a divorce, becoming an empty nester, changing jobs, moving to another place, and best of all – becoming a grandmother! The difference between successfully maneuvering these changes or flailing was directly proportional to my own willingness to lean upon God and trust in His faithfulness.
So, how can we lean on God during these uncertain times? It’s quite simple really; by reading His Word and embedding it in our hearts, by seeking Him in prayer, and by connecting with other believers. The Bible contains these comforting words for troubled times.
Isaiah 41:10 – So 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.
Psalm 34:4 – I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
Joshua 1:9 – Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Can you recall something in your life that was frightening at the time, but then became your “new normal”, and surprisingly the source of great blessings? If so, thank God for the good that came from it. If not, be prepared, because it will surely happen! The beauty in these uncertain times is that God can grow us in our faith and help us learn to lean upon Him more.
What a fellowship, what a joy divine
Leaning on the everlasting arms
What a blessedness, what a peace is mine
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Leaning on the Everlasting Arms – Elisha A. Hoffman, pub. 1887
– Susan Easttom, Director of Family Ministry
