Only God knows how long we will continue in our presence situation. We already have faced cancelled plans, interrupted routines and the curtailing of much social interaction. At the worst we are hearing we may be dealing with the virus threat for months. Even in that time our situation is going to be fluid and may get better and worse. The changes that the coronavirus has made to our lives can truly fill us with anxiety, frustration, boredom, cabin fever, etc; whether we contract it or not. So here are some thoughts to help lift your spirits and give you encouragement in this time. In ALL THINGS God gives us the help we need as we pray, praise and give thanks.

We start with prayer. We take all of our cares to the Lord in prayer. He is faithful and promises to hear and answer. We know how much He loves us as revealed through the sacrificial work of His own Son, Jesus Christ. If Jesus willingly died on the cross for us while we were still enemies. How much more will He do for us now in dealing with our struggles in life. We gladly heed James’ words, “Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray (5:13).” Even if we do not know how or what to pray, Paul writes, “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express (Romans 8:26).”

Confident of God’s faithfulness as we pray, we are moved even in these times to praise our gracious God. Peter tells us, in his first letter, how God will use our praise, especially in times of trial. “These have come so that your faith-of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire–may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed (1 Peter 1:7).” And the writer to the Hebrews tells us, “Through Jesus, therefore let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise–the fruit of lips that confess his name (13:15).” Along with the benefits praise Paul reminds us of other good things that will be helpful for us. He gives us a list that helps us focus on all the blessings God has given us. He writes to the Philippians, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things (4:8).”

As we pray and trust God’s loving response, praising Him for all His blessings, we are also able all the more to give thanks. His presence in our lives, the things for which we give Him praise, move us to want to give Him thanks even in any and all troubles. I point you to 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Remember Jesus’ words to Paul. For even though the circumstances are different, His words definitely apply to us: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).” GOD BE WITH YOU AND KEEP YOU IN HIS CARE.

If you need prayers and/or spiritual help in this time, please contact St. Paul Lutheran Church, Fredonia (672-6731 or stpaullcfredonia@outlook.com), Immanuel Lutheran Church, Gowanda (532-4342), or Trinity Lutheran Church, Silver Creek (934-2002).