To View the Video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/grKxuILPdDI
SHOW NOTES
In March of 2020, COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, and we all adjusted to a new normal way of living. It’s been over a year now of living in “Covid Times,” and in this week’s episode we are looking back over the past year and discussing the positives and negatives of the Covid lockdown.
Philippians 4:11-13 says, “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” The actual translation of verse thirteen is, "I do all through Him who strengthens me." In all circumstances, the secret of facing anything we are going through is to see that Christ is in the middle of it. The past year has brought a range of difficulties, from finances to family life to physical health. All things are possible, though, through Christ.
The last year had its fair share of devastation for many people. In 2020 alone, the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown caused 114 million people to lose their jobs. Many lost social connection with friends and family. Many lost businesses they had put years of hard work, money, and passion into. Children lost connection with friends and teachers at school, while many of those children lost the confidence in a consistent daily meal. The good and the bad were magnified during Covid, and if we're not careful we can get sucked into thinking of only the negatives the pandemic has brought about.
While the past year has been incredibly challenging in so many ways, there have also been some positive changes that have occurred. People have learned how to spend less money, and they have realized there is nothing better than what they already have. People have developed a sense of gratitude for what they have, such as their families and their homes. The lockdown also brought out a sense of creativity for many people, as many had to adjust to new ways of living. Parents suddenly became first grade teachers, and many adults had to find creative ways to work from home. Many have learned to slow life down and develop simpler routines. Instead of running from one event to the next as we add more to our calendars, Covid forced many of us to slow down and enjoy each moment. Because of the lockdown, many experienced the joy of having time to play with their children, organize their homes, and relax.
Hebrews 4:16 says, "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." It’s not wrong to go to God in times of need; in fact, it’s encouraged. Join us next week as we continue the conversation!
QUOTES
“In all circumstances, the secret of facing anything we are going through is to see that Christ is in the middle of it.” -Tim
REFERENCED SCRIPTURE
Philippians 4:11-13 “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
Hebrews 4:16 "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."
