COVID-19 Novel Encouragement Sample

Perfect Storm

Does this feel like the 'perfect storm'?

Are you experiencing broken routines, close quarters and an unknown future?

These three elements can make for what seems to be the perfect storm, a helplessness that is futile to fight. Emotions that can lead to marital strife, family tension and personal despair build like relentless waves that come crashing down upon your resolve. Is it truly a helpless storm that you are being tossed around in or can it be turned into a ground soaking rain that will lead to new growth? 

Actually, the choice is yours.

Taking a victim stance toward the fallout of coronavirus is simply giving in to the feelings of helplessness and despair. Maybe it is showing up in the bursts of anger with your family, or the sullen quietness of a depressing despair. Both are signs that you have selfishly given up. 

There is a path much different than the one you have chosen. It may be difficult, but it is possible.  It may be beyond your current strength, but there are many who are willing to come alongside you to encourage and help.     

To make a change in what is happening you must take ownership of your part.  How are you handling this season of change? Are you taking your anger out on others? Are you feeling helpless? There is a way out.

No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.  1 Corinthians 10:13

Have you mustered up to the energy to ask 'How'? How do I find a way to escape from these powerful feelings?  How can I stop this despair, anger, or helplessness?

Flee idolatry!  This may sound strange, but every time we are out of control with anger or despair, we are obeying, worshiping, giving reverence to something other than God. Maybe we are worshiping our selfish desires or the power of fear. Maybe we worship our past routines that are now broken and currently cannot be restored.  Or perhaps we are devoting our energy and thought to the great hoard of unknowns that are real and standing before us, taunting us with our feelings of helplessness? 

Whatever you are giving your power over to, this becomes your idol.  This will lead you down a tempting path toward destruction.

Flee! Turn and run! Not blindly or aimlessly but intentionally. Run to the Father.  He has the way out. Stop reading this and go to Him. Ask for forgiveness for what you know you have messed up. Ask Him to show you the path you so desperately need … the path that your spouse or family needs you to take as well.  

What next? Apologize for your part to those you have hurt in following your idol.  Don't expect them to follow your lead, maybe they will, maybe they won't.  Take responsibility for yourself.

In taking these steps, don't be alone. One of God's most common ways to care for you is through the fellowship of others who are walking with Him. Reach out to them. Call the hotline and talk out what you are going through, not for answers, but to have a caring person walk beside you as you go through this shift from an idolatrous path to the path the Father has already prepared for you. 

This may be a little bit 'loud,' but sometimes you have to holler to be heard in the midst of a storm.

A great day for your spirit is just a few steps away. 

By Mark Layng, Beijing