Just when we were finding new rhythms of life in the quarantine, the re-entry begins. We are thankful for the guidance for it to happen in stages, but nonetheless, change is change! What does God have for us in this part of our journey?
His Word
Many of us have found more time to dwell and meditate on God’s Word. We have had more time to read over Pastor Brian's devotional emails and even watch his sermons a few times. But now we need to put what we have learned into action. We have God's grace and power to face new challenges. Part of that includes adhering to the guidelines we are given for our re-entry.
James 1:22 "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."
Proverbs 9:9 "Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning."
His Ways
God doesn’t leave us guessing how we should walk through this life.
Matthew 22:37 “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
As we continue to put God first, we know His desire is for us to love one another. Here is just one example from the hundreds of verses about “one another.”
Ephesians 4:32 "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
His Power
How do we connect with God's power? Throughout the Bible we see God working with people just like you and me. He called them to do something and then He gave them strength and ability to do that. He has called us to rejoice, be gentle and present our requests with thanksgiving.
Philippians 4:4 "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
Earlier in the same letter to the Philippians, Paul reminds them that He will strengthen them.
Philippians 2:13 "for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose."
So, you see, we have nothing to fear as we walk through another change of life. Stay in His Word, connected to other believers and know that He is with us every step of the way.
Matthew 28:20b “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”