May 2020
This morning I opened a notebook and in Tom’s handwriting was “The culture and times we live in are not easily conducive to spiritual growth . . . we want instant gratification. Spiritual Growth in fact is ongoing and difficult … but mandatory.”
I wish I could tell you that the rest of the notebook was full of Tom’s notes, thoughts and ponderings. Like many other journals, Tom wrote a note or two on the first page, but nothing else.
By my count, this is week eight of “Safer at Home” and the new normal.
This is hard. COVID-19 has brought uncertainty, health concerns, an economic slowdown, job loss and lots and lots of pain and anxiety to all of us. Many of you and your families are amid huge financial and/or health challenges.
But God.
Perhaps He is growing us spiritually.
Perhaps He is teaching us perseverance.
Perhaps He is strengthening us.
Perhaps this is exactly what we needed to be more dependent on Him.
Here’s what I am learning during COVID - The sun comes up each day and sets each evening. One day follows another. God has slowed things down to help me see what is so much more important than my once super-packed, over-scheduled life before the Coronavirus. He is letting me see His handiwork, His love, His provision. He is reminding me that I am His child and I can rest in Him. He is showing me He is God and I am not. He is growing me spiritually.
God is good. Always.
Tom did a great lesson on finding joy and seeing God during trials years ago when Susan was in the hospital. Check it out:
And, how about a top 5 COVID-19 list from Tom’s library for your listening pleasure?
How to be Happy through Hurting
How to Find Meaning in a Collapsing World
How to Handle Adversity
Stability Amidst Difficult Circumstances
How to Remove Anxiety from Life
In the coming weeks I hope you’ll take some time and click into these treasures at https://www.prioritylivingaz.org
Hang in there.
And, remember, “This can only last a lifetime. . .”
Sandy Shrader