Isaiah 40: 29 He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.

Psalm 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him and who have been called according to his purpose.

Philippians 4:11-13 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live with prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Joshua 1:9 Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

I was just thinking that perhaps we all needed a couple of reminders as to where we draw our strength….our forgiveness….our comfort….and our direction in our lives these days. On different days and at different times each day, we are probably in need of each of these things.

I will tell you right up front that I do not have all the answers for every situation that you are encountering in your lives these days. However, I do have an answer for dealing with life in our current situation.

First of all, start your day with God, perhaps even before you get out of bed. Thank God for your blessings and ask God to be with you this day to see and hear what God wants you to see and hear. Ask God to help you make compassionate decisions that you can use to help people.

During the day, really try to see and hear what others are going through and to think about what you can do to let them know that you care about them and their situations.

At the end of the day, spend a little time with God; perhaps even as you get into bed. Thank God for your blessings, and ask God to forgive you for the mistakes you have made this day–known and unknown. Ask God to help you learn from this day and apply it tomorrow. Then, trust in God’s forgiveness and presence in your life, place everything and everyone in God’s hands to care for while you sleep.

Start over the next day. And now may the peace of God that passes all understanding, guard your minds and your hearts in Christ Jesus.

Let the Church say “Amen.”

Pastor Dennis Niezwaag, September 2020