Worth Noting, But…

With all that is happening in our world these days, there are times when I find it hard to focus on something positive and uplifting. I often battle a feeling of helplessness that borders on frustration and anger, conscious of the Depression Monster looming in the shadows. I question authoritative decisions that have a direct influence on my life, and I wonder how long our world—my world—will continue on this course.  Not to support the old adage, “misery loves company,” but I don’t think I’m alone in feeling this way. Negative news, mandated limitations with the resulting threat of depression, and mental and physical instabilities seem to be the topic of conversation with friends, strangers, and certainly the social media. And then there’s the isolation! Do I feel its sting? Of course I do! I miss seeing my family, teaching Bible studies, participating in a worship service, or simply visiting with a friend over a cup of tea while we share our interest in quilting. I feel helpless when I see the fear on my neighbour’s face when she admits “being paranoid” each time she leaves her apartment, and I’m left wondering what can be done during these moments of seemingly uncontrollable fear, anger and helplessness.

In The Epoch Times (January 1-7, 2021 edition) Joshua Becker suggests implementing several habits in order to live a healthy, anxiety-free life while our world appears out of control. Under the heading, A Nudge Toward Healthier Habits, Becker recommends that we remember our life has value, with its individuality and importance; that we count every day precious and worthy of our attention, despite the  mundane merging of our days; that we be firm and patient with ourselves, as we face the unwanted changes before us; that we create a three-item to-do-list to keep our minds and bodies active; that we look for the things we can control in a seemingly uncontrollable situation; and finally, that we seek help during this time of extreme isolation and, by doing so, help another who struggles. (Copyright prevents me from sharing the full context of each suggestion, but I have taken the liberty of summarizing each as I see it.)

Quite likely, these suggestions could help someone cope during these difficult times. But, as a follower and believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, I would be remiss if I failed to acknowledge that something is missing. Where is the acknowledgment that God is in control, not His creation, no matter what science dictates or humanity recommends? Where is the suggestion of seeking help through grounded Christian counsellors when getting out of bed in the morning is a struggle? Where is the suggestion on where to turn when the bills are unsurmountable, fear for the future grows daily, or loneliness is eating one’s sense of worth and purpose? Where is the encouragement to daily read God’s Word that would provide guidance and “the peace that passes all understanding”? I like Mr. Becker’s suggestions, but they cannot end there! They must include the awareness that Someone greater is in control.

So, how do I—how do you—cope during these difficult times? Do Mr. Becker’s suggestions help? I’m sure they do, to some degree. But for me, the answer to that question is found in a conscious choice I have made. I have intentionally disallowed fearmongering an inroad into my life, and I daily seek wisdom and comfort from the One and Only true God. I realize that sounds rather simple, but in truth, it’s the bottom line! On those days when I feel helpless or angry and sense the Depression Monster threatening me, I claim Psalms 143:8 as a daily reminder of just Who is in control, and I rest in that!

Being patient with myself, having a to-do-list, attempting to take control of my life, seeking help when needed, and certainly, remembering my life has value are well-grounded suggestions and worth implementing, but they are just not enough, at least not for me. Would that Mr. Becker had been in a position to reach deeper. Perhaps his suggestions would have been more beneficial—again, at least to me—had he even alluded to the possibility of a Supreme Being and Creator and leave me and ultimately, his readers, to make the final decision. All his suggestions may be worth noting but never before seeking God and His Word first.

Daniel 2:21
“He [God] changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.”

Isaiah 46:9
“Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.”

Proverbs 21:1
“The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will.”

Psalms 143:8
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul (I entrust my life).”

You are God Alone – Steve Green

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