Anchored in the midst of the storm!

Hi everyone, it's great to be back writing this blog post after months away from writing during the pandemic and lockdown. Needless to say, this year has been supremely unusual and will remain in our memories for a very long time. This coronavirus pandemic is an event which has and is still changing the way we do life going forward. Face masks, physical distancing, one-way systems, support bubbles and more, are some of the ramifications of the events of the past several months. We are, by no means, out of the woods yet. Again on the news these past couple of weeks, we have been hearing of rising COVID-19 figures, repeat lockdowns and as I type this, a very high likelihood of another national lockdown here in England. These are indeed challenging times in our world. However, there is good news for you in the midst of all of it!

The good news is this: it doesn't have to overwhelm you, you don't have to live in fear or panic, you can have an inner calm right in the middle of the 'chaos'. You may be going or have gone through a very difficult time during the pandemic, but you are still alive, you're still here! There's a good reason for that. Someone cares deeply about you and has a plan and a purpose for you. And that Someone is the One who has preserved me through all of this, given me much-needed peace and kept my chin up. I call Him 'my anchor in the midst of the storm' - God Almighty. He wants to give you that inner calm and strength as well, if you would let Him.

As I reflect on the last few months, the one thing that jumps out at me is how fragile life can be and therefore the importance of making each day count. The psalmist prayed, "teach us to realise the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom" (Psalm 90:12). When the storms of life are raging, don't focus on the storm; focus on the Anchor instead. Don't be afraid, don't be debilitated by the bad news all around you. Focus instead on the good news of God's love for you. He is the One who promises to "never leave nor forsake you", and to be with you right in the middle of the storm, holding you so that it doesn't overwhelm you (Isaiah 43:2). And yes, you got it - He always keeps His promises. Now, isn't that the kind of friend to have!

I invite you to pray this prayer:

Dear God, I want to know You more. I want You to reveal Yourself to me. Allow me to perceive Your love in the midst of the goings-on in our world. Help me to stay calm and to depend on You. Grant me Your peace. Amen.

Much love 😀