Hey Girls!

“Never forget what the Amalekites did to you as you came from Egypt. They attacked you when you were exhausted and weary and they struck down those who were straggling behind…” Deut. 25:17-18

How’s quarantine working for you? I don’t know anyone who has been fond of what’s going on. If you’re anything like me, you’ve experienced a full spectrum of emotions! The weeks, going into months of social distancing, has taken a toll on everyone. No one is excluded. Our stress levels are up during this COVID-19 pandemic. Fear, loneliness, and frustration have become our new riding companions on this roller coaster ride that’s filled with twists and turns, ups and downs. Some of you are quite happy to be isolated and away from all the hustle and crowds. Plus there’s no more traffic, right? While others of you are unhappy, wishing someone would take your kids (just for a weekend) so you could get some much-needed peace and quiet.

Others of you are delighted and thankful to still be working during this quarantine. I say ‘thank you’ for your service and helping to keep our economy up and moving forward. Still others are anxious and discouraged because you have been laid off from your job, and that can be scary. Wherever you find yourself on this emotional ride of highs and lows, please realize this…  You are not alone! We really are in this together. That’s not just a cute hashtag #inthistogether. Yes, even doing church has changed! But let’s remember, we are the church! And each of us has opportunities before us, to live out our Christian faith in real time. Our faith in God is being tested. And our faith muscle is being stretched + strengthen during this time when social and spiritual interaction has been thwarted.

I was reminded in the verse above from Deut. 25; the importance and value of community in the body of Christ and NOT to be a loner Christian. That makes you vulnerable to enemy attack. Although social distancing is presently in affect, we need to still make time to connect with people in other ways. Don’t isolate yourself. I have found that isolation can make me tired and lazy. There’s no need to get dressed and comb my hair. I’ve even forgotten to brush my teeth on some mornings and I can see how this has affected my sloppy thinking too.

When you find yourself exhausted and weary both physically and mentally, that’s when you’re most vulnerable to enemy attack. Watch out! Our enemy Satan is a roaring lion seeking to devour Christians. The enemy attacked God’s people from the rear. Let’s learn from this example in scripture the importance of staying connected to each other in community, and also connected to God. This ‘Hearts to Pray’ ministry does that very thing! I encourage you to reach out with an encouraging word to the gals on your list this month. Be bold! Allow God to stretch your faith! Someone reached out to me last month and it was a God-send. I was spiraling down in discouragement that morning, weary from who knows what?? I received a cheerful word from a gal who was praying for me. It made my day! It turned my attitude around 100%. I pray that God’s sustaining grace will continue to uphold you. That He would empower you to go forth in His strength, in His love, and in in His joy.

God bless you, Karen