Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled

Hindsight is 2020. With that sentiment in mind, reflection for growth, I've decided to do this post. 

On New Years Day 2020, I had friends over for an old-fashioned get-together. Remember those? They are my favorite form of hanging out. The beauty of this day was seeing our children, all at varying stages,  playing with board games and talking with each other. The TV was off, and it was not missed. It felt like a scene from another time, and I thought this may be the start of a new tradition. Well, that won't be happening this year, thanks to Corona, but I'm not mad. 

Because as Corona reared its ugly head, I remember being asked what's one word that comes to mind as you navigate this new reality; I replied fortification. At the time, I felt I was being strengthened for the journey ahead; I was being prepared in a new way to trust God for things that are out of my control; a prescient thought. This year, I've learned so much, thanks to Corona.

Thanks to Corona, I’ve rediscovered nature. Beaches, sitting and listening to the waves; stairways to heaven which provide a welcome workout; the miracle of bioluminescent waves; nurturing my garden.

Thanks to Corona, I know myself better. I know what upsets me, but I also know that I can choose my response. It’s harder when you’re in close quarters, and you’re constantly reminded of what upsets you, but my response is up to me. 

Thanks to Corona, it is clear that I’m a work in progress.

Thanks to Corona, my prayers are more honest; some days, I’m a mess, and God hears all about it. During one of these intense prayer times, where it seems that God's voice was audible, events unfolded that yielded a new professional opportunity.

Thanks to Corona, I’ve had some of the best conversations with friends near and far. I’m an honest person, but we’ve gone deeper with our emotions, maybe because we’re all stuck with no place to go. Thanks to corona, I know who my true friends are.

Thanks to Corona, I’ve had time to complete some projects, learn new skills, and pursue new ventures. The world is shut down, but I’m not.

Thanks to Corona, we can all see the ugliness in this world. The puss of racism and social injustice oozes from an open wound. Now the whole world can see how horrid life can be for those whose only "sin" is their skin color. I discovered my inner activist and proudly protested against injustice because the risks were worth it.

Thanks to Corona, I've seen faith in action. I completed my book, whose title is also my testimony. I have had many dark nights of the soul, and I know He is The Comfort of Night.

Thanks to Corona, I can see the opportunities in every obstacle. We don’t have to live in fear. Corona has shown us how resilient we are. We deal with what is and leave everything else in God’s hands. It’s all in his hands anyhow. Thanks to Corona, I know that for sure.

I know this year was hard for many, and the pandemic complicated it. But I also know many that thrived despite the pandemic, and it was simply a matter of perspective. I want you to know that regardless of how your year went - whether it was the best or worst year of your life, that you are never alone. God is with you each step of the way. Lean on Him for wisdom, understanding, and direction because he cares about every aspect of your life. I know with assurance that God is with me in the ordinary moments of life. It is He who is molding me into the person I'm becoming even at this stage of the game.

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. John 14:1 KJV

Knowing that God is in control - always has and always will be, so I don't need to feel sorry for myself because of a pandemic. Every day I'm alive is another to give thanks and do what He's called me to do.

Nylse is a Christian wife and a mother of four who loves life and inspiring others. She likes to have fun but is very clear on who she is and Whose she is. A prolific thinker, she blogs to encourage others from a Christian perspective at www.lifenotesencouragement.com. She can be found online on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.