By Yinka Bamgboye.
Prior to the pandemic, I had always been someone who had struggled with the concept of balance. How do I balance my studies with my spiritual life? How do I spend enough time with God and still make time for my education? These were questions I had always asked because at the time it was quite difficult. I didn’t want to fall short on either of the two aspects, so I was determined to find answers to these questions.
I soon learnt that there did not have to be a separation between the two. I did not have to fall short on either, instead integrate the two. God was always there, and I always had the support of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is a Comforter, a Supporter, a Companion, a Guide. I understood that I needed the Holy Spirit to study, to work. All I had to do was commit everything into His hands and ask for His guidance and His leading.
Sometimes we do not fully grasp the depth of some of our prayers. In the past, whenever I prayed, I would ask for wisdom, knowledge and understanding without much thought/consciousness of what I was asking and why. However, I have now realised that it is in times likes these that I needed the Holy Spirit to bestow wisdom, knowledge and understanding upon me and ever since I’ve been able to say that prayer with a sincere heart.
This past year has been difficult for a lot of us. A lot of people have suffered losses due to the pandemic. It has not been easy. Sincerely it can seem so overpowering and overwhelming. If we’ve always relied on our ability in the past, the New Normal will place a demand on us that is way more than our abilities.
The New Normal is unpredictable and changing. Though we do not have answers to all the questions swirling all around us, one certainty we know is that we have a God that never changes. He remains the same through times, seasons, years, wars and pandemics. I cannot tell you how to grieve, but I can tell you what I have found works for me. In times of pain, in times of difficulties, in times of uncertainty, my rock has been God and that is the honest truth. There is so much peace that comes with being in the presence of God. There is power in saying a few words of prayer to God. Just speaking to him and telling him what I am feeling makes a world of a difference. And I feel a heavy burden being lifted off my shoulders.
I say to you, whatsoever is a cause of trouble to you at this point in time, just speak to God. Tell Him all about it all and watch how much of a relief you will feel. It’s good to pray, yes but God also speaks to us through his word, the Bible. As well as praying, read the bible, allow his word to make an impact in your heart and in your actions. Then will His promises be perfected in your life. He has great plans for every one of us and I pray that it shall be fulfilled.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
Jeremiah 29:11 (The Holy Bible)
How has God changed you between now and before the pandemic?
Editors
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