Things probably still feel off to you right now. Yes, some things are slowly getting back to normal, but it’s possible things will never truly be the same. The good news is that God is one thing that never changes. Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” This is a good reminder, especially with the extra stress you may be experiencing right now.
I know it’s not easy to live with limitations and stress. But I want to share Philippians 1:12-21 with you today and have you read through it when you get a chance! Paul wrote this while he was in prison. Instead of giving into to stress and complaining, he did ministry through writing and counted it a blessing! He chose joy in the midst of chaos. Why is this so hard for people?
The weak link between happiness and happenings: Are you having a difficult time being happy? Are you wondering if God is against your happiness? God wants you to be happy and joyful and not base either off of circumstances (“happenings”). Charles Spurgeon said, “May you so come, and then may your Christian life be fraught with happiness, and overflowing with joy.” Did you know that one of the best ways to be happy is to first be thankful?
Be thankful in everything! I’m talking about a spirit of gratitude. Paul had a spirit of gratitude while in prison! How did he do it? He was able to see the bigger picture and chose to worship God! “…in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NASB). Have an unselfish rationality. Not everyone is able to find the good in this COVID-19 situation. But just like Paul, you have to find the good that comes out of painful experiences. Paul didn’t make things about him and his needs. He defined the win; he was IN IT to win through Christ.