This season we've been in has been filled with tragedy, discomfort and countless unknowns. It was unexpected and it has cost many their lives and their livelihoods.
Not only has the virus itself infected Americans, the mental, emotional and economic effects of the virus have magnified fear and anxiety in Americans.
I think back to the story from 1 Samuel 30 and the hard season David walked through at that time in history. It was a major low point for David and his mighty men. Their village was burned and enemies had taken their families captive.
It appeared David had suddenly lost everything, and David grieved over his loss. In 1 Samuel 30:4 we read, "Then David and the people who were with him raised their voices and wept until they had no more strength to weep."
Yes, loss is a very real part of life, even for history's most revered figures and among the Bible's heroes. David reminds us that it's OK to express our grief and our anger when bad things happen. In fact, it's healthy to lament and show emotion. Sometimes you need to get it out before you can get over it.
What's equally important though is what David and his followers did next. Instead of dwelling on his losses, David made the decision to step back, pause and ask the Lord what he should do.
When he inquired of the Lord, he learned some very valuable lessons. Here are just a handful you may find helpful during our own collective pause lately:
1. Remember that there are better days ahead. I truly believe God always has more in store for us in the future than he has in the past. Even when life seems unbearable, it's important to remember it's temporary. I've learned that when it feels like the straw is going to break the camel's back, I need to take refuge in the Lord our God and remember that he is for me and has good things in store for me. I promise, God's best for you is on the other side of the storm. Even when the sun is obscured by the clouds in the sky, the sun is still there.
2. Thanksgiving is the pathway to breakthrough and recovery. It may seem hard to be grateful lately. But you know what? If there's breath in your lungs, it might be time to make a declaration: "I'm still here! And I thank God for another day for me to make this world a better place." Spend time today in gratitude and praise. It will change your countenance to recognize the good that's still in your life.
3. Keep bitterness and bitter people at a safe distance. A crisis can bring out the best in people — we've seen that across our nation. Yet, it can also bring out the worst in others, too (and in yourself.) There's always something to complain about, and it's easy to find fault in others. Remember though that finger pointing and blame is harmful to you and to those around you. So keep watch of yourself and others and steer clear of anything and anyone that might lead to a pity party.
4. Rehearse your past victories. Something tells me this isn't your first valley in life and that you've had a few mountaintop experiences too. You've seen God make a way in the wilderness before and he can do it again. Remember those moments of promises fulfilled. It makes it easier to trust God with your future when you remember what He's done for you in the past.
5. God is who he says he is. Another way to find encouragement right now is to simply remember who God is! He created the earth when it was without form and void. He's a waymaker, he's a miracle worker. Best of all? He loves you, he's not letting go of you now and he never will.
We often have little control of what happens to us in life. But we always have control over how we will respond. The question is now, how will you choose to respond in this crisis? Will you worry until your energy is spent? Or will you rest easy, knowing that eventually the clouds will break and soon the storm will pass?
If history is any guide, there has often been a harvest even after the longest drought. And I, for one, don't want to waste a minute worrying in the waiting.
Pastor Jentezen Franklin is the Senior Pastor of Free Chapel, a multi-campus church. Each week his television program "Kingdom Connection" is broadcast on major networks all over the world. A New York Times best-selling author, Jentezen has written nine books including his most recent, "Love Like You’ve Never Been Hurt," the groundbreaking "Fasting" and "Right People-Right Place-Right Plan." Jentezen and his wife Cherise have been married 31 years, have five children and four grandchildren, and make their home in Gainesville, Georgia. Read Pastor Jentezen Franklin's Reports — More Here.
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