Everyone has a breaking point. I’ve shared in previous posts that I struggle with anxiety. It’s getting better, but I would be naïve to believe that it would ever disappear completely. Part of this is because I will never be in total control of my life. In fact, most of us deal with anxiety and don’t realize it. Sometimes, it takes a major shift in our sense of control, such as during our current COVID19 public health crisis, for anxiety to be noticed.
I should really say that we have lost the illusion that we even have control over our lives. To a degree, yes, our decisions and actions can influence certain results or consequences that we will experience. However, we are not in control. In relation to COVID19, I think the first time I made trips to three different grocery stores looking for toilet paper, I was reminded that I am not in control of my life. When fear of the possibility of my parents getting sick in the COVID19 hot spot of Louisiana, I realize I have no control. When I learn that I can do everything right and still somehow contract this virus or worse, transfer it to my husband or a dear friend, I am reminded that I am not in control. When my 401K has dropped to no fault of my own, I remember I am not in control of my life. When my daily life and routine is so disrupted and I have to follow the decisions made by others, I realize that I am not in control.
In a sense, living in America has spoiled us. Our freedom to largely do as we please and make our own decisions is highly valued and normal to us. Therefore, when we’re told that we can’t gather, we have to wear masks, we can’t go to work, or we can’t travel, we don’t take it too well being told what we can and can’t do. Naturally, some will push back or remain in denial just because they are not used to being restricted in their lives.
When we feel out of control of our lives or our circumstances, we can choose to let it break us as we spiral into fear, or focus on what we can control. What can we control right now? We can choose to follow the recommendations made my health experts and not dismiss or minimize this problem. We can protect ourselves and others. We can find ways to relax and keep our mind clear and focused on positive things. We can trust God. When we lose control, or feel we are losing control, anxiety will rapidly increase. We can cling to our faith and realize that God is in way more control that we can be. He’s in more control than this virus. He is in more control than the governor or the president. It’s also important to remember that during times of crisis, it can be normal to question God. I want to know why God is allowing this illness and death and despair to happen in our lives as well. But I also know that part of my faith is trusting that He is aware and in control no matter what is happening. If I truly trust his will, I do not have to be afraid.
“…because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.” Luke 1:78-79 Even in the dark times, even when death draws near, the mercy of God is always available to comfort us and grant us peace.
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8 Put your trust in God; only He can keep you truly safe.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 The peace we experience from our faith in Jesus surpasses any temporary peace the world can give; it can ease your deepest fears and soothe your troubled heart.
We were never in control, friends, and we never will be. He is. The sooner we realize this, the faster we can find peace in the midst of this chaos.
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