Found By YouSample

My soul finds rest.

The pandemic shutdown of 2020 was among the most challenging and frustrating periods of forced rest. We never anticipated that the social distancing, stay-at-home recommendations, and closures of different sectors of society would continue for months. Though we’ve returned to a new normal, we are waiting for the day when Covid-19 is not constantly on our minds.

One of my favorite stories in the Bible is the journey of Moses and the Israelites through the desert after Pharaoh, the chief ruler in Egypt, released them from slavery and oppression. When they were freed, the Israelites grabbed whatever they could and ran to the desert. They had nothing but the sandals on their feet and the clothes on their backs.

While they walked through the desert, God provided food in the morning and night. But the Israelites had to wait for the supply. Daily. They couldn’t hoard and save up for the next day. They needed to rest and wait for the promise of what was coming.

In Exodus 16:8, Moses tells the people, “The LORD will give you meat to eat this evening and bread to fill you in the morning…” While they were waiting, in probably moments of fear of the unknown, God was faithful and met their needs. Jesus also reminds us in Matthew 6:26, that God knows just what we need, and we can trust Him as we wait. We can rest in Him.

Be amazed at God’s ability to work through your waiting. The pandemic has forced us all to take a deep look at what it means to rest while waiting. Waiting is very hard to do, especially if you are struggling with finances, issues within your family, or are faced with a health crisis. Psalm 130:5 tells us that while we wait, we have hope.

Reflection

Take a moment to be still. What are some of the areas of your life where you are waiting on God? How has the waiting been difficult? Light a candle and say this next prayer:

Prayer

Lord, thank You that You are with me during my difficult seasons. Help me to know that I am not alone. You are with me at every step. I choose to trust You today. Help me to rest in You. Amen.

By Patriece Fraser McPeak