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So where is God in all of this?We are living in a time of fear and uncertainty. A time where there seem to be more questions than answers.
People are worried about themselves and their vulnerable loved ones. They are worried about their businesses, their jobs, about who is going to watch their kids who are now out of school if they have to work.
Conversations swirl around us like “I’m worried.” “I have an underlying condition so I am staying away.” “I am worried about my job.” “I am afraid I may lose my business.”
And then there are other conversations like this, “it’s overblown.” “This is a hoax.” “God is punishing us.” “I am not adjusting the way I live.”
So where is God in all of this?
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Well before I get to that let’s talk about, who are we in all of this, and who are we as a society becoming as a result of this worldwide pandemic.
We hear stories of neighbors helping neighbors, especially those most at risk, by purchasing groceries for them and saving them the struggle of those long lines.
Social distancing has forced families to be together for longer periods than before. This presents an opportunity for parents to tune into their kids, for marriages to repair broken bonds, it’s a time to hit the reset button.
Recently I was watching the news and saw a beautiful scene in Italy where whole communities stood on their balconies and sang in unison, lifting each other’s spirits.
Friends, this virus does not discriminate based on color, country, race, political party, gender or the myriad of things that we allow to divide us. We are all susceptible because at the core we are more alike than we are different.
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The world is flat. Technology paved the way for that. We have friends in all corners of the world. I have made amazing connections with people in India, Singapore, UK, Australia etc. Their suffering becomes my suffering and vice versa.
So where is God in all of this?
Right where He always was. The Scripture says, “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”
Isaiah 41:13 NIV
God tells us to love one another. “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.””
John 13:34-35 NIV
He has been saying these things all along. Perhaps now we will listen.
In times of disaster we tend to draw near to God. After September 11th, churches saw a major spike in attendance, and for a beautiful moment the country was unified. Race, religion and politics were of less importance. However, as soon as we were out of the woods we went back to our old familiar patterns.
The world is changing rapidly because of COVID19. How we traditionally conduct business may change forever as employees are forced to work remote and companies have had to adjust and make room for current realities.
Last month a young woman I know left her job because she wanted more flexibility in her schedule to take care of her daughter. She implored her boss time and time again to allow her to work remotely. He refused. A month later, remote working became a necessity.
This is a time for leaders to be forward thinking, heart centered and adaptable. It's also a time for employees to update their digital skills.
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Today I am unable to attend church because our State has cancelled meetings over 100 people. Lucky for us, our pastor had embraced technology so we will be watching church on Facebook Live and paying our tithes electronically. Now instead of his message being heard by only 150 people, it has the potential of being heard by 1500 or more as we are all encouraged to share with our networks.
Friends, look for the opportunities in this pandemic.
Is it time to expand your digital platform?
To get more comfortable on video?
To upgrade your technology?
Whatever happens we will never be the same.
What would God want us to do? He would want us to choose faith over fear.
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
2 Timothy 1:7 KJV
Friends, we can get through this together. Hang in there. ~ Sharon
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if you are a female and would like to be part of a community of women who are seeking answers about how your faith intersects your life and business, join our next Spiritual Mentoring Circle starting March 23rd. Register here: Join Mentor Circle
"Anyone that has doubt, going through difficult times and that needs to be reassured that God is in our corner will benefit immensely from your Circle." - Debbie Yarbrough
"I didn't know what to expect because this was my first introduction to both bible study and mentoring but I quickly benefited by the scripture readings, analysis and guidance provided." -Christine Velez
"The experience has allowed me to actually spend time in the scriptures and research various women in the Bible and how their actions apply to us today, so we can all live a Goal Oriented, Gracious, Empowered and Uplifting life. Your Bible study is on fire 🔥 Highly, highly recommended and absolutely a must." -Peta Ann Blair