Scripture Reading: “I am acting with great boldness toward you; I have great pride in you; I am filled with comfort. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.” (2 Corinthians 7:4)
These days it seems like you can’t avoid affliction, even when forced to shelter in place. With all the news, loneliness, and even tensions inside your own home it can be hard to find the joy. It’s important to be aware, be smart, be safe, and be kind (to yourself and others). These are tough times for all, but working together (even from afar) can be a huge help to everyone. I’m not a CDC or biblical expert, but I do know that being smart, considerate, and faithful will get us through this. And feeling panic, fear, concern, anxiety, etc. is normal and okay. God gave us feelings and common sense for a reason. God is in control. But it’s how we deal with it and treat ourselves and others that is in our control. Y’all can do it! So as someone who does social distancing for a living (thanks to a few chronic illnesses) I wanted to share some tips that can help you find some comfort, stability, and hopefully joy in this unknown time.
-Keep with the daily hygiene and routine sleep schedule.
-Stay hydrated.
-Step outside/Get in the car and leave the house.
-Put electronics on silence, it’s good to step away from all the news and alerts for some time.
-Acknowledge what you’re grateful for daily.
-Reach out to folks during this time/Join a small group via video chat.
-Don’t do everything in one day...spread out your “to do” list throughout the week.
-Now’s a good time to read a book, study a book of the bible, check out a podcast or a TV streaming service, etc.
-Prayer, meditation, and yoga are helpful to slow down and relax the mind.
-Foster an animal from the local shelter/offer to walk an elderly or sick person’s pup.
-If everyone is healthy and safe, offer to help someone who may not be able to leave the house.
Prayer: “Heavenly Father, we know that all things work together for your good. Help us to use this time of forced stillness to focus on you, how we can serve others, and the daily joy you continue to send every day that reminds us of your perfect love for us. And in these times where it’s hard to understand what’s going on and why, help us to cling to your peace that truly surpasses all understanding. We love you so much, Amen”.