Front Parking Spot - Renewed

As we go through our lives, there are events that make a date stamp on our hearts and minds. This is one of them. As we continue on this journey, it is important to not lose sight of all the silver linings that we have experienced over the past weeks. We have discovered new walking trails and implemented group video technology to keep in touch. We have talked to neighbors and learned that our kids, if given the chance, can be very imaginative. New work from home practices may become commonplace now that we’ve had the chance to try them, risk free. We have learned, adapted and reset our lives to get through this challenge of social distancing successfully. Now, we have to focus on the days ahead to springboard over our past few weeks into a renewed life style. This renewal focuses on faith, family and a firm foundation.

Our Faith

Knowing the future and exactly how things will work out, is not faith. If faith were this easy, everyone would have it.  Faith is trusting God and taking a leap knowing that He has led you to this crossroads for a reason. He will direct your path, if you ask.  He also says in Joshua 1:9, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged. For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”   As evidenced by the last couple of weeks, it is clear to see how our world can be shaken up in ways that we never could have imagined. However, He has never lost control. We have. Now, take this opportunity to invite Him into your life and he will direct you in the way you should go. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11.

Our Family

When all external entertainments are taken away, all that remains are the people that matter most in your life, your family. They are looking at you for peace, encouragement and a growth mindset for change. How are you going to take this life challenge and turn it into good? Are you going to complain and have fear or are you going to trust the Lord in your circumstances? Your children have a front row seat as they watch how you handle this curve ball of life. Admit you don’t have all the answers and trust in the biblical promise of, “He will be our guide.” (Psalm 48:14) This will help you lead your family through these un-chartered waters, if we seek Him honestly in prayer.

Our Foundation
What is your foundation? Is it the world and all of the shiny objects it offers like money, power and materialism that distracts us from our spiritual purpose? Clearly, we can see how these can be ripped away. Or is your foundation, based on placing God first in your life and sharing the gospel of Jesus, day to day, with those who cross our paths. In addition, the biblical promise of how Jesus wants us to live abundantly is promising. “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we can ask or think, according to the power that works in us.” Ephesians 3:20 (NKJV) Jesus is our foundation.

Be Renewed

Stepping into the future from this starting point, be renewed. Learn from what we have all gone through and be different. Draw close to Jesus and let him control your circumstances. Find resources such as the, Bible In One Year , a biblical church or a Christian mentor to help you navigate this ever-changing world in which we live. Life isn’t as scary when you know that you are in the palm of God’s hand. Rest easy, seek him and you will truly be renewed as the next chapters of life unfold.

Psalm 16: 7-8 (NIV)- “I will praise the Lord who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.”