For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Romans 15:4
Today I am…COVID fatigued. No I don’t have Covid19. I am tired of mask. I like to see people’s whole face. I am tired of the constant fear of all of the “what if this happens”. I am tired of the limitations that are required.
I am very sad for those who have lost family members and friends. I am sensitive to the needs of all of the nurses and doctors who care for patients constantly. I understand the pressure of those who are trying to navigate with wisdom the risk and controls.
I am weary of the divisions that create more walls than bridges; of the polarizations that shut down dialogue; of the passing of judgments over vaccine or no vaccine; and the tension which arises from fear expressed unceasingly throughout media outlets.
Do I compartmentalize the subject and avoid talking about it all because I don’t want to offend anyone? Do I walk around sizing up people that I think may have the virus? How long will this go on? How do I get the strength to keep on going?
In this turbulent season, where do I find strength to endure when I have grown weary?
God’s word shines a light on the path for the next step which I will need to take.
Paul states that one source of hope comes from the Scriptures. When it comes to the Bible, we need to take time to read it, meditate on it, memorize it, study it, and rejoice over it.
I have found one verse, a phrase or even one word creates hope and steadfastness for me. What stories in the Bible teach endurance?
- Noah taking years to build an Ark
- Abraham moving his whole family to an unknown deed of land
- Moses leading a nation of people through the desert
- Ruth leaving her family to support her mother in love
- An anointed David hiding in a cave from the king whom he served
- Elijah waited 3 ½ years to pray for the end of a drought
Take a moment to try to understand how each of these Biblical characters felt. What were some of the discussions that occurred between husband and wife, over the dinner table, or among friends? What did they think about each night when the put their head on their pillow? How were any of them tempted to cut corners and what was the result?
We are not the first generation to endure hardship. For many this has been more of an inconvenience than a legitimate struggle. For others, fear has smothered them. The Bible instructs us that enduring and perseverance are keys to the pathway of hope. We are promised that God’s hope will not disappoint us.
May you breathe in hope for this day. May you exhale the stress and turmoil that you have been holding in. It’s okay to let it go and receive the encouragement that comes from God’s presence and His word. Even when you are tired and weary, God holds us close as a good, good Father.
Blessings Love y’all