Hi friends,
I know this time is still so challenging for many of us; all the uncertainty, the unknowns. I have seen several friends share that they are really struggling to be positive, to find joy in the midst of the upheaval. I can totally understand where they are coming from.
A thought came to me that I think might help us: The quickest path to joy is doing something for someone else. I’m not saying this is original, but I do think it is a good message for us today!
When the coronavirus first broke out and we were just a few days into the lockdown, Jeff Goins hosted a digital meetup. He encouraged everyone on the call to find a way to be generous and use our creativity to serve others during this time. One thing he said really connected with me. He shared, this isn’t a time to just survive, retreat or focus only on ourselves. Instead it’s a time to put ourselves out there and use whatever God has given us to help others, to create something of value and use to the world.
I think Jeff’s advice is still relevant for where we are today. As people are beginning to get out, the uncertainty and anxiety is still strong. Our neighbors are still in need. Our friends may have lost jobs or even loved ones. There are many ways to help, to support and to encourage those in our spheres, no matter how big or small that sphere is at the moment!
Consider these encouragements:
Put your heart and soul into every activity you do, as though you are doing it for the Lord himself and not merely for others. (Colossians 3:23)
May he remember every gift you have given him and celebrate every sacrifice of love you have shown him. (Psalms 20:3)
For even during a season of severe difficulty and tremendous suffering, they became even more filled with joy. From the depths of their extreme poverty, super-abundant joy overflowed into an act of extravagant generosity. (2 Corinthians 8:2)
I’m certainly not trying to add a “to-do” to your already full plates! But I am encouraging you to look for even simple ways you can focus on helping others this week. Ask your kids for ideas. If you have a creative bent, in writing, or crafting, or photography, whatever–ask God if there is a way you could bless or inspire others right now.
I believe in you!
Sue