With all the unknowns and uncertainties that revolve around the COVID-19 pandemic, it is easy to become anxious and afraid. If you’re like me, you’re also frustrated by all the various cancellations and the social isolation that has resulted from it. During this time, it is especially important to draw near to the Lord in prayer.
We are instructed in Hebrews 4:16, as follows, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
Furthermore, in 1 Peter 5:6-7, we are commanded to “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”
We can be honest with the Lord about what is troubling us. He sees us where we are at and He cares. More than that, since Jesus Christ is God in the flesh who made His dwelling among us, He actually understands what it is like to suffer the frustrations and hurts and disappointments of life in this fallen world. When you pray to the Lord, He understands what you’re going through. He gets it!
So, go to the Lord in prayer. And as you do, share your questions, requests, frustrations, and cares with Him. However, while you’re there, I also encourage you to find joy as you praise Him for the great and glorious God that He is. Thank Him for His many blessings. Remember that He is very much involved in caring for this world that He has made, and nothing ever catches Him by surprise. If you need help with that, read Psalm 104, and join the psalmist in reflecting on God's activity in Creation.
One more thing… be intentional about setting aside time to pray. Obviously, we can and should talk to God anytime we want. However, especially in crazy times like these, it is easy to become distracted and neglect to pray if we’re not making it a part of our daily schedule. However, when we set aside time for prayer, we will often find that it becomes a much needed respite in our otherwise crazy lives. Along those lines, I’m reminded of the words of William Walford in his classic hymn, “Sweet Hour of Prayer.” In verse 3, Walford writes:
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
Thy wings shall my petition bear, To Him whose truth and faithfulness
Engage the waiting soul to bless. And since He bids me seek His face,
Believe His Word and trust His grace, I’ll cast on Him my every care,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!