Written by: Lindsey Nunn
“Sow your seed in the morning,
and at evening let your hands not be idle,
for you do not know which will succeed,
whether this or that,
or whether both will do equally well.” – Ecclesiastes 11:6
Right now especially, it would be easy to give in to isolation, fear and all the negativity around us. It would be easy to go into survival mode and forget that we’ve been given this gift of TIME during which we can THRIVE. Jesus said he came so we could have life in all it’s fullness (John 10:10). If you find yourself slipping into survival mode, SHAKE IT OFF!
Sorry, I didn’t mean to yell. Maybe I did a little bit. If Jesus paid with His life so we can have abundant life, let’s not let His payment be in vain. There are many ways to take hold of that life, and the Holy Spirit is good to lead on the path he has for each one of us. Here are just a few of the ways He’s been leading me:
Daily Bible Reading
This one seems obvious but it’s too important to not include. Especially when it’s so easy to be bombarded with bad news everywhere I look, I want to make sure I’m filling up more on the TRUTH than anything else.
Maintaining Generosity
God says to be generous because it’s good for us (just one of the many Scriptures on this is Prov. 11:24-25), so that’s enough for me! But I think it’s pretty cool that science is backing this up now, too. Just google “are generous people happier” and you’ll find articles and studies.
Here’s one I enjoyed: Being Generous Really Does Make You Happier
Morning Routine
In a time when so much feels outside my control, a morning routine gives my day structure, energy, and focus. This is my time to grow and be refreshed. It’s when my son is still sleeping, me and Jesus talk and I read a book that’s helping me grow as a person. It doesn’t have to be morning, but find what works for you and be diligent in how you use that time. (This is also a great time to exercise, but I’m still working on that!)
Staying in Touch with People
We all know we’re made to be in healthy relationships (Gen. 2:18), but as an introvert, it can be easy for me to stay cozy with just me, Jesus, Jake and Nico. That’s not healthy though! Seriously, talk with someone who’s isolated themselves for a while…things get weird, y’all. I’m choosing to intentionally connect with people during this time through phone calls, FaceTime, texting, etc.
Limiting Social Media
I admit I’ve used social media more during these last two weeks than I normally would. BUT, I’m also choosing to limit the amount of time I spend on there, mindlessly scrolling. I’m doing my best to use it as a tool to stay in touch with people, and not allow it to become a time and energy drainer that leaves me feeling worse than when I got on.
Getting Outside
Now that the rain has stopped (mostly), I’m loving getting out with my son to take a walk or let him explore the yard. It gets both of us moving and a healthy dose of Vitamin D! Being in nature helps clear my head and remind me that there’s a big, beautiful world out there that’s still turning and needs Jesus.