DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
by Lois Coady
Ever wonder what good could possibly come out of this Coronavirus pandemic? One of the things we have seen are numerous stories about people stepping up to encourage others during this difficult time.
On a walk through our neighborhood just three days after Governor Newsom’s “shelter in place” order went in to effect, I noticed a new piece of chalk art on the sidewalk. This colorful piece read, “Life is Good, enjoy it.”
I suspect the young artist had heard some of the fearful discussions of parents and other adults around them about the pandemic.
How contagious is this virus? Should we be wearing surgical masks when we go out? How long will this thing last? When will the kids get back to school? How will I pay my bills if I am laid off? How will we manage if one of us gets sick and dies?
Even though this time in history is unusual and scary and unlike any experience we have had in our lifetime as adults, this young artist’s heart was full of joy and excitement about life. The admonition to “enjoy it” seemed to be a reminder to those of us who have forgotten that things could be worse and we need to look on the brighter side.
As Christians, we can get drawn into the fray. The truth is that God is good. He has no desire to see us harmed in anyway. In Jeremiah 29:11, Jeremiah encouraged the Israelites with these words from God:
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For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah’s words from God were given to encourage the Israelites to remember that God was in control. The Israelites had been exiled as a result of their disobedience to God. They felt lost and alone and were not happy with life in general. God had a plan for them but they were impatient and unwilling to follow Him to receive the full benefit of that plan.
God has a plan for each one of us too. His desire is to see us whole, healthy and happy. He also wants us to trust Him. When we live life, fully trusting Him each day it is amazing the peace He provides to us. We can rest, confident that He is in control.
“Life is Good, Enjoy it.”
Isn’t this the way you want to live? You can by embracing this day confident that God made it for you to enjoy.
