You know, towards the beginning of this pandemic, it was lasting a whole lot longer than we expected, and it wasn't letting up. It kept getting more difficult to bear, and to be honest, it was making us weary. I remember looking myself in the mirror and not even recognizing myself. We used to say, "only my hairdresser knows for sure," but God knows what we're through, and He has not left us alone. He has sent His Holy Spirit into our lives, the Comforter, the Guider, who will lead us beside still waters regardless of what things look like. We are uniquely fortunate because even in the midst of this season, we can find fullness of joy in the safety of God's loving presence. Scripture says it clearly:
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Psalms 16:11 ESV)
He makes to lie down in green pastures; He leads me besides the still waters. (Psalms 23:2)
Many of us have been at our wits' end thinking this pandemic would be over, but it persists, and we find ourselves troubled, only wondering, waiting and hoping for an end. In some ways this reminds me of a passage from Psalms 107 where the psalmist talks about being at that place called wits' end, but there is a happy, faithful ending. There always is a wonderful ending with God.
They reeled and staggered like drunkards; they were at their wits' end. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. (Psalm 107:27-31)
I love that scripture; in the midst of their storm the Lord not only calmed the sea but also guided them to their desired haven. How beautiful it is to know that no matter what , God will bring us to the place He promised for each of us - to our desired haven. Looking forward to an end of this pandemic, or any other trouble you may be facing, as the scripture says, let us "give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind" (Psalm 107:8 NIV). Let us trust God and know He has ordained- to a place of peace, to a place of glory.
You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. (Psalm 73:24 NLT)
The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail." (Isaiah 58:11 NIV)
(Expert from 'Trust Changes Everything' by Gale Alvarez)