What Have We Learned?

            It looks like we might be coming to near the end of this lock-down. Whatever your opinion on who – if anyone – is to blame, we know that God allows and uses all circumstances for good. So how has He worked in us during this virus? What have we learned?

            There are some obvious takeaways: Zoom falls short of a good meeting; a wave across the parking lot is not as good as a hug; take out food is not nearly as appealing as eating out.

            God is continuing to teach me to trust Him, particularly in His timing. I’m not one who likes to delay my rewards, but I haven’t seen my grandchildren in what feels like a long, long time. But I’m grateful for technology so that I know they are doing well, even without me.

            His provision has also been wonderful during this. Whenever we’ve ventured out to get groceries, the stores have had plenty. We haven’t seen any of the shortages people have reported. And we’ve been able to help some others financially with the money we’ve saved by not spending on gas or other goods – and from those buying like crazy on eBay.

            Perhaps the greatest blessing I’ve experienced during the last few weeks is coming to a balance in my personal ambitions. What I do is important as far as it is what God has called me to do. I pray my writing touches people and brings them to a deeper relationship with the Lord. But I’m learning how very little I control things. And that’s how it should be. I’ve been asking God each day what He wants me to do. In following just what He says, I’ve found freedom.

            I want to keep that sense of relying on Him long after we’ve moved on to the crisis that will invariably come after the coronavirus.