We often get the tests first and the lessons come later. We learn the most about ourselves when challenging times show up. While we do not find comfort in being challenged, we can often discover growth! Since Friday, March 13th, all of us have been “shuttered” due to COVID-19. We all have heard more and learned more than we ever thought we would about this new threat. What are some things we have learned?
- We live in a fallen world (Genesis 3:16)-when we forget this, we may become frustrated, scared, or even panic. The world is fundamentally broken.
- We all desire to maintain control (James 3:16)-when we do not have control of our lives, we may become self-seeking which creates confusion for ourselves.
- Battles will draw us closer to God (Matthew 6:33)-when we are drawn into situations where our earthly world is turned upside down, we should look for meaning and hope beyond this world!
- We need each other (Galatians 6:10)-during the last few months, hopefully, we have checked on others to make sure their needs are met more than ever before.
- Be mindful of where we get our information (Luke 2:52)-we all need to be informed of what is happening in our communities & societies for many reasons but we should not be consumed and transformed by the daily news reports. We should be most concerned with growing closer to Christ and getting our information from Him.
- Our suffering has a higher purpose (James 1:2-4)-we all have suffered in different ways the last few weeks or our suffering may have started prior to March. Either way, our suffering causes Christians to draw closer to Christ.
Hebrews 12:11 tells us our pain will train us and yield fruit. Let us allow today’s lessons prepare us for tomorrow’s tests.
