I don’t know about you, but it seems to me that everything I undertake is at least twenty percent harder during this strange season of pandemic. Things that used to be no effort at all — like going to the market or to the dry cleaners — are not only complicated by new rules, but there’s an unsettling nervous energy that makes it harder to interact with others. Since societal norms have shifted dramatically in the past seven or eight months, most of us are trying to adapt, and this finds us expending more energy than we normally would. In fact, if I’m honest, I’ve had my fair share of days when I just wanted to sit on the couch and watch Netflix. That said, while I believe it’s important to recognize that we’re dealing with things that drain us in this season, I also believe that discipleship is more important today than it’s ever been. The devil wants us to numb out, but now is the time to fully embrace our lives and to love and cherish our Lord more than we ever have. Though others are “turning off” or turning outward in anger, we can be those rare people who turn inward, pour out our hearts before Jesus, and ask Him to start making us today into who we need to be tomorrow. 

My friend, even though it’s hard, this is the time to press into the fullness of God, to seek His will, and to pray with passion! Yes, the world is full of confusion, but your Savior has the answers. Though at first it might feel like wading through mud, when you resolve to pursue His purpose in the midst of difficulty, the peace that floods your heart will provide the energy you need to move forward. The wisdom, love, and tranquility you possess are a rare treasure in this seemingly hostile and purpose-hungry world, and as you keep the faith, they will overflow from within you so you can share them with others. When you go deep with God in the midst of chaos, His divine confidence will become you!