God is Bigger Than COVID-19

 

“Only in the darkness can you see the stars.” – Martin Luther King Jr

 

 

Last week I didn’t post for the first time in 2020. I was suddenly stopped in my tracks by the rapidly changing situation of COVID-19. Like literally everyone else on this planet, I wasn’t sure which way to turn or what to think or how to wisely prepare. For those of you that don’t know, I live in Los Angeles California and as of a few days ago, the entire state is under a shelter in place order for the next month. *Cue the mind-blown emoji*

 

Now that we’re a week in, life is starting to settle into its own kind of new routine. It’s amazing how adaptable people are. I have figured out a way to fully work from home and maintain sanity. I’ve gotten into a rhythm with my friends and family and I’m feeling out the best ways to take care of myself in a time where everything is up in the air. I’ve somehow found a balance in a world that is upside down.

 

The only way I’ve been able to do this is by repeating a mantra to myself. You may have guessed it by the title but the words I keep repeating to myself: God is bigger than COVID-19.

 

Let me be clear. This is scary and uncomfortable to say the least. We don’t know where we’ll be on the other side of this or what will even be on the other side. Some people still aren’t taking it seriously and that’s a really unsettling and terrifying notion for those of us who are and who currently can’t even leave our houses except for essentials. The economy, people’s health, financial security…the list of worries and fears is long and filled with very valid concerns.

 

I’m not here to tell you that what you’re feeling is wrong because it’s not. Each of us are experiencing this but it doesn’t mean our experiences look the same. The purpose of this post isn’t to invalidate your feelings but it is to hopefully speak some peace into your heart.

 

God is bigger than COVID-19. What does that mean exactly?

 

It means God is going to use this for good. He already has. There have been so many stories of humanity reaching up together and there’s a beauty in slowing down and living in the present.

 

God is good always. Even now. Fall back on what we know to be true. God will not forsake us. He will never leave us or abandon us. There are a lot of people without faith who are in tremendous fear right now. In today’s sermon, my pastor said that we were not made to have the spotlight on us but to be a spotlight upon others. Be the light in the dark.

 

God led us to this, He will bring us through it. It’s really easy to have faith when everything is as it should be. It’s in these moments where we turn everything over to God that our true faith can shine through. He will never abandon us.

 

Fear and worry are tools of the enemy. There is a lot of bad to focus on right now. A LOT. There are devastating things happening right now that we can’t and don’t understand. That’s where faith comes in. I challenge you to see the good when you’re looking for the bad. And honestly, I know there are things that are bad no matter what light they’re in but if I don’t give, if you don’t give everything over to God, we will feel the weight of the world on our shoulders.

 

Give it to God and let it go. Do what you can in the present moment. Don’t pressure yourself into thinking this time has to be used for productive purposes only. You can take this time just to slow down and take care of yourself and your family. Use this time to get back to the root of what really matters most.

 

Thinking of the aftermath of this global event, of COVID-19 can be daunting. There will be a negative impact but there will also be positive. For what is happening now, a few days from now, and after this is over, choose if you’re going to look at the darkness or the stars.

 

stay safe,

 

 

Worship Playlist

 

Tip: I’ve been listening to worship music more frequently now than I ever have. It serves as a good reminder of who is in control.

 

 

 

If you want a helping hand:

 

 

Remember your new mantra: God is bigger than COVID-19.

 

It’s important now more than ever to stay connected. Put your e-mail down below to stay in touch during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.