So often these days, I hear how sad, lonely, tired, and depressed my fellow Christians have become with the chaos of these days and the restrictions brought on by the pandemic.

I get it!
In addition to this ministry, I work at a hospital. I have worked in hospitals now for 30+ years. Never has it been so tough. At least not in my lifetime.

But, we are called upon as the Church to be a pillar of strength in such times.

This does not mean we ignore our feelings. We have every reason to feel discouraged, tired, and sad. Yes - every reason.

But we also have every reason to feel filled with hope, renewed energy, joy, and love.

Because this is Chapter 1 of your story and mine. Just Chapter 1.

And, we have been given the cheat sheets of what lies ahead.

Each day, we are each one step closer to heaven. That is a fact.

Every day, we move closer to our permanent home—where:

He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things will be gone—forever! (Revelations 21:4).

I understand you are tired, lonely, and exhausted. Our heavenly Father knows this too.

Lean on your church family. Lean on this ministry—we are here for you.

But, in the greater world, show others the strength, love, hope, endurance, charity and goodness that resides within you because Christ lives within you. Show them Him through you!

When I feel particularly tired from the fight, there are many passages of Scripture that uplift and inspire me. I will list seven below—one for each of the days ahead this coming week, for you to meditate on:

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song, I praise Him. (Psalm 28:7)

Be Strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you! (Deuteronomy 31:6)

The Lord is my strength and my defense; He has become my salvation! He is my God, and I will praise Him, my father’s God, and I will exalt him! (Exodus 15:2)

My soul is weary with sorrow, strengthen me according to Your Word. (Psalm 119:28)

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)

He give strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. (Isaiah 40:29)

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)

Print these off and carry them with you.

There is no person or no thing stronger than our God! Let’s display His strength, love, and joy in our communities.

Let’s be the Church!