A friend of mine came over the other day (I know this isn’t social distancing!) and she mentioned that she was getting tired of not having anything to do during this Covid-19 outbreak. When I thought about this, I realized that “having nothing to do” is what God sometimes calls us to do. In Psalm 46:10, God tells us to “Be still and know that I am God.” Being still is so hard for a lot of people, including myself! If you ask my husband he’d tell you that I don’t know how to sit still. But as I thought about this verse again, God is commanding us to be in these chaotic times and to focus on Him.
Wow! I don’t know about you, but that was a bang across my forehead when I thought about it. Instead of worrying about our health, finances, relationships, or selfish desires at this time, God is telling us to focus on Him. He wants our cups to be filled with Him during this time of “Staying Home.” Although we are supposed to be social distancing from people, that doesn’t mean we should be social distancing from God. Instead we should be turning to Him in all areas of our life during this time.
As I thought about what this looks like in my life right now, I thought about the ways that God could be the center of things that I CAN do. I know these aren’t always easy with working from home, kids learning from home, or the day to day tasks of life, but I promise you that if you include some of this each day throughout this period of “staying home,” you will not only will be closer to God and your family, but you may actually ENJOY these moments of “doing nothing.”
- Play Outside
- Although it’s still not Summer weather in Wisconsin, we have been loving the 40-50 degree temps that we have been getting. Each day we have been making a conscious effort to get outside with Adi. We go on walks, visit the new construction site across the road, play on my parent’s farm, or just simply be. It’s the fresh air and moments like these that make me cherish God’s creation.
- Finish Home Projects/Chores
- So often we say we are too busy to get things done around the house, so what better time to do those then now. If finances are troubling at this time, don’t do a project but instead clean those areas that you often times wouldn’t do. Scrub the shower, wash the floors, or in my house, just simply pick up the toys.
- Visit a local State Park or Trail
- All state parks in Wisconsin have free access during this time, so what better time to visit than now. There is something special about spending time in nature and just being in God’s creation. Make it a day by going hiking, eating a picnic lunch and going on a scavenger hunt. Here’s a list of state parks in Wisconsin.
- Do a fun craft
- A friend of mine said that she has started knitting a blanket to keep herself busy while she is laid off. Start a new hobby, do a craft with your kids, or finish a fun project you’ve been meaning to get to but haven’t had time. Maybe even do something with your kids that you can give to your local hospitals or healthcare staff. Show them how to share God’s love in moments like this.
- BE IN GOD’S WORD
- Nate and I recently watched the movie “Like Arrows” on Netflix and we loved it. The movie reminded us that we are to live our lives centered around Jesus and the rest of life will fit in around this. In these trials and difficult times, it’s even more important to be in God’s word and to be reminded about his love and direction for not only our lives, but our kid’s lives. We need to find his grace and peace right now in the midst of the anxiety and worry that the world is experiencing. What better way than through his word.
I understand, this whole “staying home” this is not easy. Sometimes we just need to get out, but instead of looking at this as a bad thing, see it as God’s command for you to focus on Him and not on what’s going on in the world. I pray we all start to slowly enjoy this period of slowing down and put our trust and faith in Him that all will work out for the good of those who love Him. God Bless and I pray for health and happiness to you all!
The information on this site is for informational purposes only, and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have a medical concern or condition, please contact your healthcare professional.
