Though there are many things we can aspire to in life, I think the season we find ourselves in at this unprecedented time in history presents us with a unique opportunity to focus on what’s really important. It’s easy to settle for less than God’s best for us, especially when we exist in a culture that is dominated by entertainment, the illusion of a quick-fix, and numerous shortcuts that promise to get us wherever we want to go in half the amount of time. Nevertheless, as we read Scripture, we are encouraged again and again to seek wisdom, to love righteousness and mercy, and to submit ourselves to the One who puts the next breath in our lungs. While joy is a byproduct of doing life with Jesus, it is not manifest in a series of “feel good” experiences. Instead, true happiness is a deep and abiding state of mind, heart, and spirit that enables us to find contentment, regardless of external circumstances. You see, as a follower of Christ, struggles are inevitable; in fact, they are a guarantee — but so is victory. Our triumph is found in the power of the Holy Spirit, who enables us to build the kind of life that floats on the storm.

My friend, God can take this difficult time and use it to change you from the inside out. While you are experiencing things that you never have before, within the challenge is an opportunity to press into His presence and build an unshakable confidence in His character. Though your external circumstances have changed and that weighs on your emotions, you are becoming a stronger and more resilient Jesus-follower with every passing day. As you face the storm head-on and seek to develop wisdom in the eye of it, your spirit is strengthened and your soul is buoyed by the never-ending grace of your Savior. Yes, these are tough times, but you are floating on your Heavenly Father’s goodness, and He is building within you a bold assurance that will see you through the remainder of this trial and make you even stronger as you endure the next!