We’re living in uncertain times. I scroll through social media and every other post is about uncertainty in some form. If it’s not about the quarantine, it’s about the fear of the people. Fear in all forms. Honestly, I’ve been wrestling with some emotions just like everyone in the world right now. Here’s a twist, however. We’re all practicing social distancing and because of that, I’m forced to take some time and contemplate my thoughts and feelings. Here’s what I’ve realized in a week of quarantine.
1. Dealing With Desperate Times
Are we living in desperate times? Yes, we are. If you walk into any grocery or convenience store, you’ll see empty shelves where paper products and canned goods used to sit. People are desperate and scared. I’ve realized that I’m desperate at times too.
- For a few minutes of quiet…
- To finish the homeschool work we didn’t get to…
- For More time to accomplish chores…
- To satisfy the overwhelming dessert cravings (since my 3-year-old ate the last piece of __)…
- To lose the baby weight I’ve had for 4 years despite the numerous programs I’ve tried…
- For more sleep that seems unattainable in every season…
Can you relate to any of these desperate feelings? I’m sure you can. But here’s the thing. It doesn’t matter the things I’m desperate to attain.
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with your whole heart.”(Jeremiah 29:13)
If I’m constantly seeking after Jesus, I won’t feel desperate to grasp for these things. I don’t want to feel desperate for earthly things. I want to desperately seek after Jesus. If I’m doing that, I won’t seek after things that leave me feeling empty rather than fuel my soul.
2. Overly Distracted
Oftentimes we don’t realise how distracted we really are until we’re forced to slow down. We live in a highly technological age where it’s easy to rely on social media and the latest apps to keep us engaged.
Last week, we were on spring break for our homeschool so I had a bit more time to get some things accomplished. Guess what I did? Nothing. Yep, that’s right. During spare minutes, I mindlessly scrolled on social media and assured myself I was simply staying informed and connected. My fingers were engaged, yes, but my mind was still distracted.
“…be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5b)
Friends, if we really sat down and contemplated how we spend our time, we may discover we’re more distracted than we think. We’re so distracted by the noise that we can’t hear God’s voice speaking truth in the midst of uncertainty. In the quiet moments, God speaks if we’re willing to listen. When we listen, He speaks the truth that changed us.
God is never far away from us. He only seems distant in our distractions.
3. Danger In Distancing
As an introverted mom, the social quarantine procedures did not bother me at all. In fact, I was engaging in my own happy dance (inwardly, of course) at the thought of not having to go anywhere. The truth is that after a few days, I realized that I’m not as introverted as I thought. I really miss my friends; my people. Yes, there are some video chat options, social media, texting, and email, but they are not a replacement for meaningful connections with our people.
I realized that when I take time to fill “the tanks” of those around me, my tanks become full as well. I encourage you to continue to connect with people during this time. As we connect deeper with our families at home, let’s encourage a few others each day too.
Maybe it’s the new mother at church we don’t talk to very often but she could use some encouragement. Perhaps it’s our neighbor that we’ve only waved to from a distance.
There is a danger in distancing whether we’re quarantined in our homes or not. When we distance ourselves from the world, we neglect opportunities to encourage one another.
What I Am Changing?
These are only 3 things I’ve realised during a week of quarantine and I’m sure the Lord will bring many more to light. So, what am I doing to strengthen my weaknesses?
- Making my quiet time a priority in the morning – I’m starting my morning with the Lord so I’m less likely to lose focus during the day
- I’m scheduling social media time – this prevents mindless scrolling for hours when I could be doing more productive things
- I’m contacting at least 1 person per day – this is via text, email, or video chat to truly connect with them and pray with them right there. I can record a prayer via text and send it right then.
I know we’re living in uncertain times. But let me leave you with this –
Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:31-33
Have you realized anything during this uncertain season? Let me know in the comments below!
