COVID-19: Remedy For Anxious HeartsSample

ISOLATION AND THE PRESENCE OF GOD

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. Psalm 139:7–10 

In recent weeks, we’ve adopted new phrases into our everyday vocabulary: ‘social distancing’, ‘self-isolation’. 

Many of us are feeling the cost of this new reality. Perhaps you feel cut off from those around you. You miss physical touch; an integral part of human connection. Video chat just doesn’t cut it.  The loneliness creeps in. There’s no doubt we were built for relationship, not isolation. And yet, for the sake of public health, isolation is the responsible thing to do. 

Today, know that you are never alone. God, by his Spirit, is with you. Always. In fact, Psalm 139 tells us that even if we try to flee from Him, we cannot. Though He rules the whole world, He is also very near. 

He Knows You 

God’s Spirit was present when the world was created (Genesis 1:2). And, He was present when you were created. There is no one who knows you better. 

Our best friends are those who know us best. The ones who know our desires and our worries, without us having to say a word. The ones whom we don’t need to explain ourselves to, but God knows you far better than those friends. Though you may be in isolation today, the God who knows you best is with you. 

He Prays for You 

Romans 8:26 tells us that the Holy Spirit prays for us. When we don’t know what to pray, He intercedes for us. That is who is keeping you company today. As you work or study from home today, He prays for you. As you care for your family or community today, He prays for you. When you are lonely, the Spirit knows that and pleads your case to the Father. 

He Comforts You 

The Bible refers to the Holy Spirit as the Comforter (John 14:16, 26). How could he be anything less? He is the Spirit of God, who is Love.  If you trust in Jesus, He has given you His Holy Spirit. It is that Spirit who preaches the Gospel to you. He reminds you, ‘Jesus has forgiven you’, ‘God loves you’, ‘I’m with you’. 

COVID-19 is scary. But take heart—you have the Divine Comforter with you.