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“I the Lord do not change.”
Malachai 3:6

Spring is a fickle time of year as the weather can change from one minute to the next. A few weeks ago my family enjoyed Easter dinner outside on my back patio and just days later, snow covered the ground.

But that pales in comparison to the change we have all experienced due to the worldwide pandemic called COVID-19. These times are scary, for sure. The world we once knew as society has changed dramatically. Some of you may be doing your best to deal with grief, let alone all that is being asked of us to “flatten the curve.”

As widows, we are most certainly no stranger to change.

We are keenly aware of how it turns our world upside down stirring up fear, anxiety, and worry.

Amidst all these changes I take comfort in knowing that God never changes!

His promises are still true.

So today I want to share with you some scriptures that have helped me navigate widowhood as well as a pandemic. As you meditate on them I pray they will calm your fears, comfort your heart, and give you hope as they have done for me.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

Moses had just died and the Israelites were heading into the Promised Land under Joshua’s leadership. In that time of change, God assured Joshua that He would never leave him nor forsake him. This is His promise to you as well. You are not alone! God is by your side wherever you go or whatever you go through!

The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:2 (NIV)

When grief and pandemics stir up fear and anxiety, God offers us shelter as we go to Him in prayer. There we find a refuge of comfort as we “shelter in place” with the One who loves us. Additionally, we receive instruction for the tough decisions and times we find ourselves in as He speaks to our hearts.

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.
Isaiah 43:19 (NIV)

No matter how dark the world can seem, God is still working, changing what looks desolate and hopeless into something of great use and value.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3: 5-6 (NIV)

In times of change and transitions, it’s easy to lose direction or feel overwhelmed with uncertainty. We must be careful not to trust our emotions or thoughts but look to God for direction.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

Share with God your fears, anxieties, worries, and uncertainties. But do so with a heart of thanksgiving that is fueled by your trust in Him. Peace will follow!

Lord, we thank You that in all the changes we are experiencing in our lives right now we have Your promise that You never change. Your word to Your people 2000 years ago is still Your word to us today! Amen