Lady Bird Johnson famously said “Where flowers bloom, so does hope.” The bluebonnets have been brilliant this spring and I’ve so enjoyed my beautiful drive to visit my horse. But, this spring, I almost missed their beauty! I was so consumed by the challenges and concerns of each day. Maybe you are too.
Each one of you is affected in some way by the COVID 19 virus…. sadness, pain, loss of work, worries financially, social distancing, fear of getting the virus, uncertainty, not-knowing-what’s-next, confusion and much more!
I truly believe the pain that we’re enduring will not be forever. But, when we’re in it, it feels like forever. It’s scary and we truly need hope and encouragement as we endure each day. Here are a few thoughts to help you in the days ahead:
1. We’re anxious, but give your anxiety to God. It’s normal to be anxious and have legitimate concerns. Pray more and worry less isn’t some formula. It really does help. It frees us to take our minds off the craziness and news around us and give our concerns to God. No one wants to be worried and struggle to sleep. For me, when I pray, God calms my fears. He puts things into perspective. When the anxiety returns, I go to God and pray more! Make a prayer journal and list all your fears. God is very present and hears each one of your prayers.
2. Hope is found in God. We tend to have definitions of hope that are way different than God’s. We may hope we don’t lose our job or home. We can hope that we find a spouse. We can hope for our dreams to become reality. The biblical definition of hope is not a “hope so” kind of hope. It’s for real hope. There is nothing more certain and secure than hoping in God. He will never leave us nor forsake us. Will you choose today to hope in God?
3. Initiate with others. I’ve found that even when I’m hurting, I can encourage others. Keep social isolating, but don’t stop being social. We need each other more than ever! Get to know your neighbors and ask about their struggles. Call up your workmates. Reach out and call people you haven’t talked to for a while. Most people, especially now, are quite willing to share. In the Gospels, Jesus Christ constantly reached out to people, asking questions, encouraging, listening, and caring….even during challenging times. When you bear each other’s burdens, you’re literally following the way of Christ.
4. Don’t miss the bluebonnets- The bluebonnets represent all the beautiful things in your life that you can miss during this challenging time. There is so much to be grateful for! Take a look around you and thank God for the many gifts He’s given you. It's a time to reflect on all those things we took for granted.
Each one of you is affected in some way by the COVID 19 virus…. sadness, pain, loss of work, worries financially, social distancing, fear of getting the virus, uncertainty, not-knowing-what’s-next, confusion and much more!
I truly believe the pain that we’re enduring will not be forever. But, when we’re in it, it feels like forever. It’s scary and we truly need hope and encouragement as we endure each day. Here are a few thoughts to help you in the days ahead:
1. We’re anxious, but give your anxiety to God. It’s normal to be anxious and have legitimate concerns. Pray more and worry less isn’t some formula. It really does help. It frees us to take our minds off the craziness and news around us and give our concerns to God. No one wants to be worried and struggle to sleep. For me, when I pray, God calms my fears. He puts things into perspective. When the anxiety returns, I go to God and pray more! Make a prayer journal and list all your fears. God is very present and hears each one of your prayers.
2. Hope is found in God. We tend to have definitions of hope that are way different than God’s. We may hope we don’t lose our job or home. We can hope that we find a spouse. We can hope for our dreams to become reality. The biblical definition of hope is not a “hope so” kind of hope. It’s for real hope. There is nothing more certain and secure than hoping in God. He will never leave us nor forsake us. Will you choose today to hope in God?
3. Initiate with others. I’ve found that even when I’m hurting, I can encourage others. Keep social isolating, but don’t stop being social. We need each other more than ever! Get to know your neighbors and ask about their struggles. Call up your workmates. Reach out and call people you haven’t talked to for a while. Most people, especially now, are quite willing to share. In the Gospels, Jesus Christ constantly reached out to people, asking questions, encouraging, listening, and caring….even during challenging times. When you bear each other’s burdens, you’re literally following the way of Christ.
4. Don’t miss the bluebonnets- The bluebonnets represent all the beautiful things in your life that you can miss during this challenging time. There is so much to be grateful for! Take a look around you and thank God for the many gifts He’s given you. It's a time to reflect on all those things we took for granted.
If you need spiritual encouragement or to receive prayer, please know I would love to connect. Just email me (Nancya@ymcasatx.org) and we can set up a time to visit by phone. Be encouraged. Our hope is in a God who has been and will always be faithful.
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain of the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
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